35 Unforgettable 40th Birthday Trip Ideas for 2025

Celebrating your 40th birthday is a wonderful opportunity to embark on an adventure and these 40th birthday trip ideas offer plenty of ways to mark the occasion. This milestone isn’t just about getting older, it’s about embracing new experiences and creating lasting memories.

Whether you’re planning a solo retreat, a romantic escape or a fun-filled trip with the family, there are bound to be multiple 40th birthday trip ideas that will appeal to you. From serene escapes to exhilarating thrills, these 40th birthday trip ideas cater to every type of traveler. So get ready embrace the adventure that awaits you and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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• 40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Foodies
• 40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Couples
• 40th Birthday Family Trip Ideas
• 40th Birthday Solo Trip Ideas
• 40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Groups

40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Foodies

1. Global Cooking Classes

While you could stay home and take a few cooking classes near you, why not venture to another city or country to learn how to cook incredible dishes and make a full trip of it? From cooking classes in the U.K. to cooking classes in France or Italy, there’s no shortage of incredible options for a memorable foodie 40th birthday trip! 

2. Food Tour

Celebrating a milestone like a 40th birthday deserves something special, and what better way to indulge your inner foodie than with a food tour? This 40th birthday trip idea lets you dive into the heart of a city’s cuisine, sampling everything from local street food to iconic dishes. 

With food tours around the world, you’re bound to find one that excites your palate no matter where you go. Whether you travel to New York City or Tokyo, you’ll find food tours waiting for you that highlight all the best local flavors and culinary traditions. 

3. Vineyard Getaway

A vineyard getaway is an excellent 40th birthday trip idea for foodies and wine lovers alike. On this sophisticated trip, you'll get to spend your day surrounded by picturesque grapevines, sampling exceptional wines with exquisite food pairings. 

Keep it local by exploring vineyards near you or check out some of the top vineyards in the U.S., such as those in Napa Valley in California. If you’re feeling more adventurous, take a vineyard tour abroad and visit the famous Italian wine regions or French wine regions.

4. Michelin Star Restaurant Tour

Dive into the world of fine dining with a culinary tour of Michelin star restaurants for one of the more luxurious 40th birthday trip ideas for foodies. With almost 200 Michelin star restaurants in the USA, every city you visit is likely to have a top-notch dining destination awaiting you. You could even plan a multi-city trip, just to visit multiple Michelin star restaurants!

From upscale French bistros to cozy American eateries, you’ll have the opportunity to savor extraordinary meals crafted by some of the best chefs in the industry. If you’re planning an international trip, there are plenty of options across the globe, such as fantastic Michelin star restaurants in London where you can indulge in elevated British, fusion and internationally-inspired cuisine.

7. Street Food Sampling

Kick off your 40th birthday with a flavor-packed street food sampling adventure as you visit the best foodie cities around the world. From local stalls in Spain to global street food festivals in Singapore, you can taste your way through authentic flavors that showcase each destination's unique cultures and traditions. 

As you navigate bustling markets and lively streets, you’ll have the chance to interact with local vendors and immerse yourself in their culinary heritage. If you're after 40th birthday trip ideas a little closer to home, there are many amazing street food markets and food truck spots across the United States.

From attending full-blown food truck festivals to checking out the fancy food trucks in Los Angeles or the variety of famous food trucks in Portland, there are numerous tasty options just a short car ride or flight away.

6. Brewery Tour

Celebrate your 40th birthday with friends over great brews as you visit breweries across the U.S., Canada and even internationally. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing craft beer in Vancouver or indulging in a rich stout in Boston, each brewery is an adventure in flavor. 

For an even more elevated experience, consider heading to Prague. Known for being one of the largest beer consumers in the world, the city boasts a thriving brewery scene where you can enjoy authentic Czech beers. This journey through breweries is a top 40th birthday trip idea for anyone who loves well-made and one-of-a-kind brews.

7. Christmas Markets

Even if your birthday isn’t around the holidays, you can plan a 40th birthday trip after your special day in order to explore world-famous festive Christmas markets. If remaining in the U.S., exploring the Christmas markets of the Big Apple is one of the top Christmas things to do in NYC and is worth the journey even if you don’t live nearby.

Alternatively, hop on a longer-haul flight to marvel at the Christmas markets of Europe, such as those in Austria, Germany and Belgium. 

8. Food Festivals

With famous food festivals hosted across the U.S. and the globe, attending a few is one of the best 40th birthday trip ideas for foodies. Renowned food festivals in the U.S. include the South Beach Wine & Food Festival and the Austin Food & Wine Festival. 

You can also find festivals based on your favorite food and drink, including seafood festivals like the Maine Lobster Festival and wine festivals, such as the California Wine Festival. Looking for 40th birthday trip ideas further afield? Check out the glitz of the St. Moritz Gourmet Festival or try the best Oktoberfest food at Oktoberfest in Munich, among many other delicious options.

40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Couples

9. Tropical Resort

Escape to paradise with your partner at a tropical resort where you can sip cocktails on a sun-kissed beach and wave your worries away. With countless resort destinations like Hawaii and The Caribbean, there's no shortage of options to choose from.

Once you've decided on your destination, book an all-inclusive package where you can indulge in everything luxurious, from gourmet dining to activities and lots of drinks! Whether you’re relaxing at the beach or exploring the local culture, this 40th birthday trip idea is the perfect getaway for couples to celebrate together. 

10. Hot Springs Road Trip

Take a road trip together for a 40th birthday trip idea that will lead you to some of the most soothing hot springs around. Canada and the U.S. are home to stunning natural hot springs that are rich in minerals and provide plenty of amazing scenery. 

Drive through picturesque landscapes and stop at all the best hot springs for a relaxing soak and a chance to unwind. Don’t forget to add Iceland’s breathtaking Blue Lagoon to your list of 40th birthday travel ideas if you’re traveling outside North America. 

11. Luxurious Spa Getaway

Indulge in a blissful escape to a luxurious spa for a 40th birthday trip idea that will pamper both your body and soul. Book a day for a relaxed birthday date idea or plan a more luxurious overnight stay at a top spa resort where you can be treated to couples massages, relaxing hot tub soaks and more. 

If you don't feel like doing any major traveling, keep it local and discover a new hidden gem in your area. Alternatively, if you don't mind hopping on a flight, kick things up a notch by heading to a world-renowned spa destination like Budapest, the Spa Capital of the World. 

12. Mountain Escape

Cozy up with your partner in a charming cabin surrounded by snow-capped peaks as you celebrate your 40th birthday in the mountains. Head to top tourist favorites in North America like Banff in Canada where you’ll find a serene environment perfect for reconnecting with each other. 

If you want to travel further afield, Switzerland is an excellent 40th birthday destination, complete with snowy scenery in the winter and great food and drink. No matter where you choose to go, you’ll get to enjoy quiet evenings together and spend your days skiing and snowshoeing before heading back inside and warming up together by the fireplace. 

40th Birthday Family Trip Ideas

13. Camping

Going camping with the family is the perfect low-stress 40th birthday trip idea everyone will love. The U.S. boasts incredible campgrounds, including an array of campgrounds in national parks. Most of these spots are nestled in the mountains and forests and along beautiful beaches, giving lots of scenic options as to where you’ll pitch your tent. 

If you’re on a budget, this 40th birthday trip idea makes it very easy to keep it affordable and close to home. But if you’re not, consider going international to New Zealand or Scotland for a truly unique camping experience. 

14. Family Cruise

Take your family on a cruise for a 40th birthday trip idea that combines adventure with relaxation. Choose a family-friendly option like a Disney or Carnival cruise where kids can explore endless activities while adults unwind in luxury. 

You can all come together later for a special family birthday dinner, uniting everyone in the celebration. From pools and waterslides to thrilling shows, going on a cruise offers a little something for everyone and is one of the most memorable 40th birthday ideas you’ll discover. 

15. Theme Parks

Going to a theme park ranks high on the list of 40th birthday trip ideas to enjoy with family, offering endless amounts of entertainment and excitement. Whether you’re spending the day at Disneyland or seeking thrills at Six Flags, these 40th birthday destinations aren’t just for the kids, adults love them too. 

With various parks to choose from, packed with plenty of rides, attractions and food, it’s the complete package for a 40th birthday celebration with the family. 

16. Water Parks

Celebrate your 40th birthday with a splash-tastic family vacation at one of the top water parks in the U.S. With slides, pools and attractions for all ages, the kids will have a blast playing about while adults can also find their fair share of thrills. 

Many water parks offer poolside cocktails for the adults as well, so you can celebrate in style while still letting your kids run wild. Places like the Typhoon Lagoon in Florida offer massive aquatic playgrounds with something for everyone. You could even go further afield when taking up this 40th birthday trip idea and book a trip at a waterpark resort outside North America. 

17. National Parks Tour

Pack up the car and your family and head out on an epic road trip for one of the most adventurous 40th birthday trip ideas. National parks across the U.S. and Canada showcase some of the most incredible natural beauty and stunning hiking trails that make for an unforgettable family trip. 

Visit iconic sites like the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone National Park where you can marvel at each spot’s vast beauty and various natural landmarks. Another great park north of the border is Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, where the turquoise lakes and majestic mountains will leave you awestruck. 

18. Family Resort

Planning a vacation at a family-friendly resort is one of the best 40th birthday vacation ideas that caters to kids and adults. Destinations like Mexico, Jamaica or Fiji offer incredible all-inclusive resorts with a variety of activities for families. 

While your kids enjoy supervised fun, you can sip on refreshing cocktails and savor delectable meals without worrying about a thing. This 40th birthday trip idea is perfectly relaxing with the added touch of a tropical adventure. 

19. European City Break

A family journey across Europe’s most famous cities is among the best 40th birthday vacation ideas for a taste of adventure, culture and history. Discover the beauty of Athens, where ancient ruins await, stroll through London’s historic streets and marvel at Rome's incredible architecture.

With plenty of kid-friendly attractions along the way, such as Disneyland in Paris, this trip ensures fun for the whole family. 

20. African Safari

Embark on an African Safari with the whole family for your 40th birthday celebrations. This unique experience is unlike any other and offers a chance to witness stunning wildlife in their natural environment. 

From lions to elephants and rhinos, your kids will be captivated by the sights and sounds of Africa. There are lots of tours to choose from, including guided walking tours and game drives, so each day can be filled with new adventures. 

40th Birthday Solo Trip Ideas

21. Wellness Retreat

Heading to a transformative wellness retreat is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself for your 40th birthday. No matter which wellness retreat you choose, you’ll be able to participate in a range of self-care activities and healing practices to suit all your needs.

You can find many five-star retreats all over the U.S. but if you’re looking to make a trip out of it, destinations like Italy and Mexico can provide different cultural experiences as well. 

22. Shopping Spree

Treat yourself to a fabulous shopping spree that doubles as one of the best 40th birthday gift ideas. You can choose your own gifts and splurge on some well-deserved retail therapy. 

Travel to renowned shopping destinations like Milan, Paris or London for a taste of luxury fashion and high-end boutiques. If you’re staying local, Los Angeles and New York are fantastic options for trendy finds and chic accessories.  

23. Train Ride

With so many different train lines to explore, a train ride is an exceptional 40th birthday idea you can enjoy all on your own. Grab a Eurail Pass and weave through Europe’s picturesque landscapes, stopping wherever your heart desires. 

If Canada is more your style, Via Rail takes you across the country while the Rocky Mountaineer treats you to spectacular views of the Canadian Rockies. Each journey is a celebration of freedom and discovery, making it one of the best 40th birthday trips you’ll ever take. 

24. Mission Trip

What if your 40th birthday could be a chance to change some lives? A mission trip is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences and would make an excellent 40th birthday trip idea for those who like to give back.

Whether you’re volunteering with wildlife, cleaning up beaches or supporting children in education and healthcare, each opportunity presents a unique way to give back. You can choose from many different countries where your efforts will be appreciated and needed. This 40th birthday trip idea also offers one of the best ways to learn about local cultures.

25. Nature Hike

With how busy life can get sometimes, it can be rare to have the opportunity to just get out into nature and embrace the great outdoors. Taking yourself on a nature hike is one of the best 40th birthday trip ideas whether you’re exploring your own backyard or going out on a road trip to hike popular tourist spots.

If you do decide to venture into the wilderness and away from well-populated areas, make sure you are adequately prepared for a safe and fun hike. 

26. Theater Weekend

Add a dash of glamour to your 40th birthday by purchasing a ticket at a world-class theater. The Sydney Opera House in Australia is well worth the trip and you can also do some incredible sightseeing while you’re there. 

Alternatively, visiting Broadway is one of the best things to do in NYC for theater enthusiasts. If you’re looking to catch a specific show, make the trip to go see it and treat yourself!

27. Kayaking Expedition

Swap birthday cake for ocean waves with a kayaking expedition that blows all other 40th birthday trip ideas out of the water. Paddle along the stunning Pacific Coast of Vancouver Island or navigate the beautiful waters off the East Coast of Maine. 

With countless rivers and lakes across the globe, the perfect aquatic escape is waiting for you. If you don’t own a kayak, no worries, rental options are plentiful and easy to find in many locations. 

28. Biking Tour

Hitting the open road on a bike tour is one of the most adventurous 40th birthday trip ideas for solo explorers. Cruise through California on a wine-country tour, where local tastings await you at each stop. You could also choose to cycle along Spain’s breathtaking Mediterranean Coast with azure waters and rugged cliff faces.

If your athletic abilities beg for a challenge, sign up for a race to test your limits and experience a different kind of thrill. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a bike tour to suit your needs. 

40th Birthday Trip Ideas for Groups

29. Ski Trip

Hit the slopes with a group of your friends for a 40th birthday trip idea that gets everyone out having fun in the snow. Rent a chalet together and make an entire weekend out of it at the Big Sky Resort in Montana or the world-renowned Whistler Blackcomb Resort in Canada.

Spend your days shredding down the mountains and your nights warming up by the fire sharing laughs and maybe even some cocktails. If you don't know how to ski or snowboard, most resorts offer lessons, allowing you to pick up a new skill for your birthday. 

30. Golf Getaway

Swing into your 40s with a memorable golf getaway with all your best pals for a 40th birthday trip idea that brings everyone together for some friendly competition. With so many popular and public golf courses scattered across the U.S., you’ll have no problem finding one that suits your game style. 

The Classic Club in Palm Desert, California or The Ranch Golf Club in Southwick, Massachusetts are both beautiful and well-rounded courses. If you’re looking for something a little different, the Bruntsfield Links Short Hole Golf Course in Edinburgh offers 36 holes of short-range fun.

31. Concert or Music Festival

Relive the glory days with your group at a good old-fashioned concert or music festival and celebrate your 40th like a rockstar. Choose a city hosting your favorite artists and make the trip alongside your best friends for a nostalgic night of epic jams. 

If a music festival sounds appealing but you think you might be getting too old, you can forget that notion! There are many festivals out there with every genre imaginable that cater to every age group, so nobody’s left out of the music scene.  

32. Sporting Events

Bonding over a shared love of sports makes for a great way to celebrate your 40th birthday among friends. Whether you’re watching your favorite hockey team at an NHL game or attending an NFL game, the electrifying energy of the crowd will have you cheering on your feet.

If a traditional football game is more your speed, hop across the pond to England where passionate fans are more than happy to cheer along with you (just don't call it soccer!)

33. Extreme Thrills

Turning 40 is the perfect chance to tick something off your bucket list and face your fears head-on. What better way to step out of your comfort zone than by taking the plunge together as a group? 

Skydiving, bungee jumping and rock climbing are all extreme thrills that promise to give you an adrenaline rush like no other. If that’s a little too intense for your group, ziplining or even paragliding are both wildly amazing experiences that would make your birthday one to remember. 

34. Houseboating

Houseboating is one of the most thrilling ways to celebrate a 40th birthday, allowing you to soak up the sun on open waters and live it up with your best friends. Imagine touring up and down Florida’s coastline or exploring some of California’s best lakes on a luxury houseboat. Arkansas also has a surprising amount of house boating opportunities surrounded by an abundance of nature.

35. Casino Weekend

Get your buddies together for a weekend of gambling and good times for a 40th birthday trip idea that will be anything but boring. Best of all, there are many great destinations to choose from like flashy Las Vegas or glitzy Monaco. If you do a little research, you can even find casino resorts in memorable locations you may not have thought of, such as the Fallsview Casino Resort overlooking Niagara Falls!

Celebrating such a special milestone requires an extra special 40th birthday trip idea, and this list offers nothing but the best. Whether you’re among friends, family, as a couple or even searching for a solo adventure, these 40th birthday trip ideas ensure you celebrate with a memorable and enriching experience. 

Embrace the beauty and diversity of the world and take this opportunity to see and do something new. After all, you only turn 40 once!

For even more special occasion ideas, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.