Maybe the days when you piled the kids into the family car heading for who-knows-where on vacation are in the rearview mirror. But you have fun empty nest activities ahead of you!
In fact, it’s almost a relief–as much as you may treasure those days with the whole family.
Whether you’re an aspiring globetrotter or a seasoned high-roller, endless possibilities await you as an empty-nester.
To help inspire your travels, look to these 10 empty nest activities that will inject some fun into your next vacation. Continue reading to discover culture and cuisine, beauty and adventure, and entertainment and good times.
It’s time to start planning your best vacation yet!
CONTENTS — In this article, you will learn 10 empty nest activities that will help make your vacations more fun, including:
- Best Vacation Activities for Empty-Nesters
- 1. Exploring Culture and Heritage
- 2. Savoring Fine Dining & Cuisine
- 3. Staying in Comfortable Luxury
- 4. Enjoying Fun Leisure Activities
- 5. Attending Live Performances
- 6. Going Shopping
- 7. Taking In Beautiful Scenic Drives
- 8. Connecting with Nature
- 9. Playing VIP Casino
- 10. Meeting Other Empty-Nesters
- Final Thoughts on Empty Nest Activities
- Next Steps
Unforgettable Travel Activities for the Seasoned Explorer
Looking to enjoy a vacation, packed with culture, comfort, and a touch of luxury?
Your years of hard work have earned you a delightful trip.
From exploring historic sites to enjoying world-class dining and maybe even indulging in a live casino experience, get ready for an unforgettable journey catered to your interests and preferences.
1. Exploring Culture and Heritage
Start your trip by diving into the rich cultural heritage of your destination.
Perhaps you’ve always had a certain place on your bucket list or want to delve into your family heritage.
The time is at hand.
To get the most out of your adventure, consider touring with experts. Many cities offer guided tours, focusing on historical architecture, art galleries, and museums.
These knowledgeable local guides can provide you with insights and stories that bring history alive!
And here’s a money-saving tip you might be able to use: Ask for senior discounts, as many places offer them.
2. Savoring Fine Dining & Cuisine
At this stage in life, you deserve to indulge in exquisite culinary experiences.
So, be sure to research the best restaurants at your destination. Then, make reservations in advance.
Whether you prefer gourmet meals or local delights, remember to inform the staff of any dietary requirements you might have.
An evening of fine wine and dining can be a memorable highlight of your trip.
Make it even more fun when you step out of your comfort zone to sample local cuisines. You’re sure to find something new to please your palate.
3. Staying in Comfortable Luxury
Look for a quality hotel that’s both comfortable and handy.
A room with a nice view or a fancy spa can make your stay especially nice. Who wouldn’t want to wake up and enjoy morning coffee on a private deck overlooking the coast?
Choose a hotel that offers you the level of luxury and where you’ll be most comfortable within your budget.
But first, here are some basic questions you might want to research when you’re choosing a hotel:
- Is it near the center of town?
- Is transportation to popular places available?
- Is it equipped with age-friendly features as needed, such as elevators and wheelchair access?
Also, think about things like a helpful front desk that’s always open, good restaurants on site, and a heated pool and gym for exercise.
These ammenities will up-level your experience.
You can also ask for a better room or special deals that might include free breakfast or tea.
Before you book your hotel, be sure to look into what other people say online about the hotel. It’s easy to make a place look good on paper (and online). But reviews will give you additional insights, positive or negative.
Finally, talk to the hotel before you go if you need special food or have other needs. That way, your stay will meet your expectations.
Picking the right hotel helps make your trip one you won’t forget, especially when it’s convenient and comfortable.
4. Enjoying Fun Leisure Activities
Round out your experiences by incorporating your interests into the trip.
For instance, you might like to play golf at a renowned golf course.
Or, if you love to cook, maybe you’d want to take a cooking class to learn about local cuisine.
Photography buff? Schedule a walking tour to the most scenic attractions at your destination with a camera pro.
If you enjoy games and entertainment, an evening to play VIP casino can be both thrilling and engaging. From slot machines to card games, many casinos cater to a more sophisticated crowd, ensuring an elegant and enjoyable experience.
Think about the activities you most love to do, then do them abroad.
Related: 7 Most Popular Pub Games For An Epic Night Out
5. Attending Live Performances
Another activity that’s fun to do when your traveling is to attend live performances. That could be a theater performance, symphony concert, opera, jazz music, or even a comedy show.
Many cities offer world-class entertainment that will surely enrich your travel experience.
You’ll want to book tickets in advance to make sure you get the best seats. That way, you can avoid being disappointed if the show is sold out or the only seats remaining are sub-par.
Don’t forget to explore local cultural events, too. They may not be as widely advertised but offer authentic experiences.
The best way to find them is to check with the local tourism office or your hotel concierge. They can make recommendations that are tailored to your interests.
Even smaller venues can host talented artists and unforgettable performances. Who knows? They may just become the highlight of your trip!
Whether you prefer a grand opera house or an intimate community theater, you can usually find something to suit your tastes.
No matter what kind of live performance you attend, make sure you dress appropriately. Some venues may have specific dress codes, so it helps to check ahead of time.
You can take the opportunity to enjoy a nice dinner before the performance or a late-night drink afterward to discuss the show.
Engaging in the local arts scene can add depth, culture, and pleasure to your travels.
6. Going Shopping
If you appreciate fine craftsmanship, you should plan to explore local shops and boutiques that offer unique, quality products.
From handmade crafts to designer fashion, shopping can be a delightful way to spend an afternoon!
Take the time to wander through charming streets and discover hidden gems where artisans create beautiful pieces of jewelry, ceramics, textiles, or woodwork.
Many shop owners are proud of their local heritage and will happily share their craft’s history with you.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions and learn about the materials and techniques used. These items can make for wonderful souvenirs that hold special meaning and memories of your trip.
If you’re interested in fashion, look for boutiques that feature local designers. You might find they offer styles that might not be found elsewhere.
Enjoy the pleasure of trying on clothes in a relaxed, personalized setting, where staff often provide one-on-one attention.
While you’re at it, keep your eyes open for cool antique shops and open markets to splurge a little on some local goods.
Whether you’re searching for a distinctive piece of art or a stylish new outfit, shopping locally supports small businesses and gives you the chance to bring home something truly unique.
7. Taking Scenic Drives
If you love scenic drives, then you’ll want to rent a comfortable car for a relaxing drive through the countryside or along the coast.
That way, you can see beautiful views and quiet places at your own pace.
Plan to drive by lovely landscapes, small towns, and old landmarks.
You might want to pack a picnic lunch to eat somewhere pretty, like near a waterfall or by a calm bay.
Along the way, stop at farmers’ markets or stands at the side of the road to try some fresh, local food.
Feel free to talk to local people to find special places that aren’t in guidebooks, too.
Of course, you’ll want to keep your camera handy for great pictures of the scenery and any animals you might see.
Whether you drive through vineyards, cliffs by the sea, or peaceful woods, exploring by car lets you go at your own speed and find places that feel special to you.
It’s a great way to enjoy the local area and make your trip really special.
8. Connecting with Nature
There are few things more restorative than communing with nature.
So, as part of your trip, make a point to experience the unique natural beauty in your destination.
This might be a stroll through botanical gardens or parks, forest bathing, or exploring some gentle hiking trails.
You can also consider a guided nature walk. That way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of being in nature while also learning about local flora and fauna from an expert.
Even reading a book by the ocean soothes your brainwaves with the relaxing sounds of nature.
9. Play VIP Casino
Should you desire a touch of luxury and excitement, spend an evening playing VIP casino. You’ll find a range of fun games and often live entertainment, too.
Set aside a budget for playing and then see what your luck brings you!
No matter the outcome, it’s a fun and elegant way to enjoy a night out.
10. Meet Up with Other Empty-Nesters
As a general rule, fun is multiplied when shared.
So, consider planning your empty nest activities with other empty-nesters.
That might mean planning a couples trip, or gathering up your solo girlfriends for a weekend getaway. It could also mean chatting with others who seem approachable as you travel.
You can also look to empty nesters groups on platforms like Meetup. There, you can find others with shared interests to connect with on vacation, whether you’re in the US, France, Malaysia, and over 200 destinations world-wide.
The more, the merrier!
Final Thoughts on Fun Empty Nest Activities
Your vacation should be as unique and delightful as you hope it will be.
A few final tips for making your travel plans:
- Remember to plan your travel arrangements in advance.
- Consider pre-arranged transportation or private tours that allow you to enjoy your vacation without the hassle of navigating on your own.
- Create an itinerary that offers a good mix of culture, experiences, shopping dining, and entertainment.
- Spend some time in nature.
- Share the fun with others!
By planning in advance and tailoring your trip to your interests, you can create a holiday that’s both enjoyable and meaningful.
Getting used to this new chapter of your life can be tricky at times, so consider these empty nest ideas for adapting.
It helps to embrace the adventure, indulge in your favorite things, and make the most of this exciting chapter of your life!
Original Author Bio: Author Ethan Neal is a seasoned travel expert, specializing in curating experiences for mature travelers. With years of experience in the industry, he understands the needs and preferences of empty-nesters, ensuring that every journey is filled with comfort, culture, and just the right touch of luxury.
About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF
I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years. With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality. Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! Follow my social channels for more inspiration.
Next Steps
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