10-Year Anniversary Trip Ideas to Celebrate a Decade of Love

From budget getaways in the US to luxury all-inclusives abroad, you're sure to find a trip you and your partner will swoon over.

Couple standing on terrace at sunset in Greece

Photo: amriphoto / Getty Images

Updated Oct 30, 2023

A 10-year anniversary is one occasion when a couple may want more than just a romantic dinner at their favorite restaurant. The dream 10-year anniversary trip is a candlelit meal in an exotic locale that's far away—or at the very least a couple hours away from home. You can spend a lot of time coming up with 10-year anniversary trip ideas and celebratory milestones (gifts, included). Take a deep breath, exhale and start your research here.

10-Year Anniversary Trip Ideas in This Article:

Best 10 Year Anniversary Trips in the US
Best 10 Year Anniversary Trips Abroad
Budget-Friendly 10 Year Anniversary Trips
10 Year Anniversary All-Inclusive Vacations
10 Year Anniversary Getaways Near You

Best 10 Year Anniversary Trips in the US

If you want to mark your milestone with a 10-year anniversary trip that's stateside instead of in a far-flung locale, you have plenty of great options in the good old US. In Chicago, you get museums, the lake, parks, culture and cuisine. Scottsdale stands out with its mountains and intoxicating desert landscape. In New Orleans, you get more fun than should be legal. Santa Fe is indeed "The City Different"—go there, and you'll learn exactly why it has that moniker. And Carmel-by-the-Sea is simply a romantic's dream spot.

Chicago

Chicago is the nation's third largest city. This year for the seventh consecutive time, it was named the Best Big City by Conde Nast Traveler. This midwestern metropolis is beloved for its vibrant neighborhoods, parks, lakefront, arts, culture and cuisine.

Things to Do: Take a sunset sail on Lake Michigan, stroll the lakefront path or the Chicago Botanic Garden. Visit the city's many museums and galleries. The Lincoln Park Zoo deserves a look, as does the Shedd Aquarium. To relax, treat yourselves to the couple's special at AIRE Ancient Baths. After dark, there's dinner at one of the Michelin-starred rooftop restaurants and a Broadway show in the historic theater district. You can also enjoy an evening of jazz or other live music.

Places to stay: Kimpton Gray Hotel; Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel; The LaSalle Chicago; The Langham Chicago; The Peninsula Chicago

Scottsdale, Arizona

Truth is, the Sonoran Desert is just sexy, and the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains adds to the Scottsdale mystique. While the official food is chili, don't let that fool you. There is no shortage of great restaurants here, with some 800 for foodie couples to choose from, many with patios that are perfect for peeping mountain views. Golfers will think they've died and gone to heaven with 50 golf courses. Old Town is a must with its restaurants and shops.

Things to Do: Meander hand in hand among the 50,000 plants in the Desert Botanical Garden. If you're in town on a Thursday night, you won't want to miss the Scottsdale ArtWalk. For a dinner you'll both always remember, make a reservation at the tres chic Café Monarch in Old Town, with its ever changing menu. For adventurers, there are hot air balloon rides, hiking, off-roading, rafting and more.

Places to stay: Boulders Resort and Spa Scottsdale; ADERO Scottsdale, Autograph Collection; Senna House Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in the US. For a small town, there is so much art. In fact, it's one of the largest art markets in the country. For the art-loving couple celebrating their 10-year anniversary, this will be a sweet spot, with several museums and more than 250 galleries along Canyon Road, the Railroad District and elsewhere. There are mountain biking, hiking and horseback-riding trails. For a day trip, get your thrills rafting the Rio Grande or Rio Charma, or charter a fly-fishing trip.

Things to Do: When you two are looking to get the zen vibe flowing, Ten Thousand Waves, a world-class spa with private outdoor baths set in a forest, awaits. For history buffs, there's the New Mexico History Museum and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. End the night with The StarGazer adventure. The train takes you from the Santa Fe Railyard out into the dark skies of the scenic northern New Mexico landscape. Enjoy Champagne and live music in restored vintage Pullman cars.

Places to stay: Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection; Eldorado Hotel and Spa; Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe; Inn and Spa at Loretto.

New Orleans

After a decade together, you may be in the mood to get wild and crazy. There's no better place than New Orleans to do just that. Eat, drink and be merry. Indulge. The fantastic food is downright sinful all over town. Your senses will be stimulated, and the cocktails will take care of the rest. There is always a festival, be it music, art, food, whatever—everything is worth celebrating in this city. In between the revelry, there are museums, ghost tours and cool boutiques.

Things to Do: While you will undoubtedly spend some time on Bourbon Street, fun does not begin and end with it. There is St. Charles Avenue, with its canopy of oak trees, bars, restaurants and mansions, as well as Audubon Park. Magazine Street is several miles of galleries, dive bars and shopping. For some of the best live music in the Crescent City, make your way to Frenchmen Street. Put Preservation Hall on your list for the jazz that defines New Orleans. Spend an afternoon at the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

Places to stay: Hotel Saint Vincent; Four Seasons Hotel and Residences; Virgin Hotels New Orleans; The Windsor Court.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Some places you have to see to believe. Carmel-by-the-Sea is that kind of place. It's not like anywhere else you've been, made for lovers with its romantic, fairytale-like architecture by Hugh Comstock, who in the 1920s designed the village's cottages with rolled eaves, rounded doors and asymmetrical chimneys that are downright dreamy. The town on California's central coast is just one square mile that looks like a European-style village from centuries ago. It's perfect for a 10-year anniversary vacation.

Things to Do: Stroll through the courtyards and secret passageways in the village, with heart-shaped statutes, flowers, art galleries and boutiques. The scenic paths are perfect for a walk or run. When you're ready to toast each other, there are more than 15 wine-tasting rooms. You'll be wowed by the culinary scene. This small town is home to 60 restaurants. Wind down a great day with a sunset on Carmel Beach.

Places to stay: L'Auberge Carmel; La Playa Hotel; Hotel Carmel; Carriage House Inn.

Best 10 Year Anniversary Trips Abroad

Maybe for the two of you, the best 10-year anniversary trip is one that's far away and exotic. Perhaps it's even where you wanted to honeymoon, but didn't. Go ahead and pack your bags. You've earned it. The world really is your oyster. For a 10-year anniversary vacation, go for the best of the best. That means places like Santorini, Dubai, Loch Lomond, Las Catalinas and Cape Town should top your bucket list.

Santorini

You've seen it in movies and in magazines, and now it's time for you two to see it for yourselves. This Greek island is renowned for stunning sunsets, the bluest of blue Aegean Sea, and whitewashed buildings with brilliant blue-dome churches. Walk the cobblestone streets decked out in cascading flowers as you take in the shops and all the history. Live the romantic fantasy in Greece.

Things to Do: Chill on a catamaran cruise to volcanic hot springs. Sip away the afternoon at wineries, or wile it away at one of the island's luxurious spas. The spot for the ultimate IG shot of the sunset is the Oia Castle. It is said that when the sun slides down, buildings shimmer in pinks, oranges and yellows. Greece is all about history, so do make your way to the Akrotiri ruins. Frolic on black sand beaches.

Places to stay: Andronis Boutique Hotel; Canaves Oia; Mills House Elegant Suites; Katikies Santorini; Andronis Arcadia; Sea Breeze Santorini

Dubai

With Dubai, you get a triple crown of sorts—romance, luxury and adventure. Dubai is all about the extraordinary, the perfect tone for a milestone event like a 10-year anniversary trip. In Dubai, couples will find the best of the best, be it shopping, dining, nightlife, architecture or art. If you want to feel like royalty, this is the place for you. Candlelit concerts are performed at some of the city's landmark venues. Dubai is indeed one of the most romantic places in the world.

Things to Do: Shop 'til you drop is what's done in Dubai. Splurge—you're celebrating a decade of love. There is no shortage of places to spend, but even if you do more window shopping than buying, the glitz and glam you'll see just browsing is an experience. Do hit the Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world by land area. You'll want to see the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest flower garden, and The Dubai Fountain, the tallest dancing fountain anywhere. It reaches more than 900 feet. If there's one thing you're still talking about on your 20th anniversary, it will likely be a hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise that you took in Dubai. Other treats include a Dhow cruise on a traditional wooden boat, Burj Khalifa, a tour of Old Dubai, and skiing at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort.

Places to stay: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Atlantis, The Palm; JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai; The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai.

Cape Town, South Africa

The Mother City, which got its name because it was the site of the first European settlement in South Africa, is beloved for its pearly white-sand beaches, spectacular sunsets and fantastic food. The centerpiece though is Table Mountain, which overlooks the city. Cape Town offers much, and is quite fitting for a 10-year anniversary getaway.

Things to Do: Table Mountain is not to be missed. It is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Hearty types can hike to the summit, but it's surely a lovely ride via aerial cableway, too. Boulders Beach, with its rock pools and penguins, is a favorite. The action is at the V&A Waterfront with its shops, restaurants, roaming performers and attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium where you can swim in the shark tank if you dare. For an art fix, go to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA).

Places to stay: Ellerman House; Cape Grace; Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel; The Silo Hotel.

Loch Lomond, Scotland

When it comes to Scotland, Glasgow and Edinburgh get all the rave reviews. But 20 minutes outside of Glasgow is Loch Lomond. This is countryside living at its best. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park were the first places in Scotland to be awarded National Park status in 2002. The area is straight out of a movie set. You'll feel like royalty if you stay at the historic Cameron House with its fine dining, over-the-top spa and luxurious suites. There are small villages and castles nearby, amazing architecture, and tons of sheep and cows. It is one of the most beautiful places in the UK, making it perfect for a 10-year anniversary trip.

Things to Do: Loch Lomond at more than 20 miles long is the largest expanse of freshwater in the UK. Water-loving couples can jet ski and water ski, kayak and paddleboard to their heart's content. Hike mountains, cycle paths, horseback ride, go pony trekking and take long, leisurely strolls. If you two would rather experience the lake via boat, there are a variety of boat trips to do just that. Visit Loch Lomond Shores, where you can do a Segway safari, shop and dine. At SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, there's an array of sea life and Scotland's largest collection of sharks. The fun isn't limited to the water. The TreeZone Aerial Adventure Course in the treetops with zip wires, hanging platforms and more is for thrillseekers.

Places to stay: Cameron House; The Lodge on Loch Lomond; Loch Lomond Luxury Lodges; The Inn on Loch Lomond.

Las Catalinas, Costa Rica

There's something special about this beach town on the coast of Guanacaste. The newly constructed community is so walkable that it's nearly car-free. One side of town is 1,000 acres of tropical dry forest, hills and valleys ideal for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. On the other side are two beaches that are awesome for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and boogie boarding. You'll feel like you stepped back in time with cobblestone streets and fountains throughout town that are reminiscent of the European charm of yesteryear.

Things to Do: Hit the trails on a bike. With 42 kilometers of world-class, single-track trails that feature stunning views of the coastline and valley vistas, Las Catalinas is one of the most prominent mountain biking destinations in the American tropics. Hiking and running trails have spectacular views and the bonus of likely seeing monkeys, peccaries, coatis and exotic birds. Snorkel—the variety of marine life, calm seas and good visibility make snorkeling ideal. The Beach Club is the gathering spot with its views overlooking the beach. Enjoy the elevated adults-only pool and lounge terrace—with a cocktail, of course. The Center of Joy is where you two can chill with yoga and sound baths.

Places to stay: Bon Vivant; 229 Las Catalinas; Santarena Hotel; Baranda.

Budget-Friendly 10 Year Anniversary Trips

Ten years together is cause for celebration. But that doesn't have to mean something extravagant and expensive. In fact, much like a quiet, beachside wedding with just a few people can be as special as an extravagant fete, so can an anniversary milestone trip. There are plenty of places where you can have a good time, create memories that will give you smiles for the next 10 years, and allow you to save a little cash to do home improvements or whatever else you need to do at this stage of life.

Toronto

Getting to Toronto won't take all day, especially when you're coming from cities on the East Coast and in the Midwest. This cosmopolitan city is a melting pot where more than 140 languages are spoken. If you two love culture, this town is for you. There are a slew of museums; music venues; ballet, dance and opera companies; and symphony orchestras. Better still if you are a foodie, with more than 8,000 restaurants. Even if you're mindful of your budget, consider having a romantic candlelit dinner at one of the town's Michelin-rated restaurants.

Things to Do: Browsing is just as fun as buying, though you may find bargains in the cool vintage shops in the funky Kensington Market. One art stop not to miss is the Royal Ontario Museum. A good way to get a taste of the city is by taking one of the bike tours where you will explore the neighborhoods that are so unique. The Distillery District, one of the city's oldest industrial neighborhoods, is now hipster central with distilleries, restaurants, cafes, galleries and boutiques. Do hit landmarks like the 1,815-foot CN Tower for amazing views of the city's skyline. If you're in town the second Friday night of the month, head to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada for Jazz Night, which features a live jazz band, cocktails and an array of sea life.

Places to stay: Ace Hotel; W Toronto; Park Hyatt Toronto; 1 Hotel Toronto; Fairmont Royal York.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

This small town is the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you two are looking for a romantic mountain getaway that's not fussy but has charm, this one's for you. It's just an hour drive from Knoxville (if you want to get a bit of a bigger city vibe during your vacay) and half an hour from Dollywood. Discover local artisans with more than 100 eclectic shops. Connect with nature with incredible mountain views, hikes and waterfalls. That Appalachian hospitality will make you feel welcome.

Things to Do: Take the aerial tram up to Ober Gatlinburg for great shopping and dining—if it's winter, there's ice skating, skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Book a tour at the Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery and imbibe Ole Smoky moonshine, whiskey and craft cocktails. For big fun outdoors, the place is Anakeesta, a theme park. Don't miss their Astra Lumina, an experiential enchanted night walk amongst the stars featuring immersive lighting, projection and sound, creating the ultimate celestial-romance experience. No romantic retreat is complete without a stroll across the Gatlinburg Skybridge, the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in North America and one of the most popular proposal spots in the Smokies.

Places to stay: Berry Springs Lodge; Treehouse Grove; Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown; The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg.

St. Petersburg, Florida

Picturesque St. Petersburg is on Florida's Gulf Coast. While it doesn't get the spotlight of Miami or Ft. Lauderdale, it should. It's charming, but not too cute, with a bit of funkiness, art everywhere and a vibrant culinary scene. "The Sunshine City" boasts beautiful beaches and tons of murals. The new St. Pete Pier is 26 acres of Tampa Bay in addition to downtown St. Pete's parks. You won't be disappointed if you choose to celebrate in St. Pete. There's fun to be had minus the crowds.

Things to Do: You'll want to experience the Pier with its shops, restaurants, fishing deck and more. Relax at the expanded Spa Beach and Spa Beach Park in downtown St. Pete. Two museums you must visit are the Salvador Dali Museum and the Chihuly Collection for stunning glasswork. Take your pick of water sports—kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing are all options here. Take one of the guided nature tours by boat or a sunset sail into the Gulf.

Places to stay: The Birchwood; The Vinoy; The Don CeSar; The Saint Hotel.

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

From the parks and the Riverwalk to performing arts and romantic restaurants, Winnipeg could be perfect for your 10-year anniversary trip. It's the capital of the Manitoba province in Canada, and it's known for The Forks, a historic site that sits at the intersection of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers that has warehouses that were converted into shops and restaurants, as well as leafy spaces for festivals, concerts and more. The city's Exchange District is art central with early 20th century architecture and tons of galleries.

Things to Do: Bond while biking through Assiniboine Park where you can rent from Bee2gether Bikes with their unique collection of bikes. There's much to see in the park, the English and Formal Gardens, the Mol Sculpture Garden and The Leaf, Canada's largest indoor waterfall and butterfly garden. The Riverwalk is alongside the Assiniboine River and leads to the Esplanade Riel, which gets you to Saint-Boniface, the French side of the city that is full of cafés, chocolatiers and pastry shops. When you are ready to hit the reset button, Thermëa by Nordik Spa-Nature awaits. You'll love the heated hammocks, Finnish saunas and thermal pools throughout the open-air grounds. Finish off your time there with a cocktail at the fireside lounge.

Places to stay: Inn at the Forks; Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Center; Mariaggi's Theme Suite Hotel and Spa; Fairmont Winnipeg; Mere Hotel.

Cape May, New Jersey

This seaside resort town captures your heart. It is beloved for its beaches, Victorian homes, shops and restaurants. The Victorian architecture and the sea add to its romantic feel. You'll want to stroll the beaches hand in hand and think about the best moments from the past decade. For a small town, you'll be surprised by the variety and quality of the cuisine.

Things to Do: What is it about lighthouses that is so romantic? The historic Cape May Lighthouse is just two miles from the center of town and is worth a short trek there.

Jet ski, paddleboard, parasail, ride bikes on the boardwalk or just relax on the beach. It's kinda corny, but hey, it's your 10th anniversary—a horse-drawn carriage ride is called for. Vino can set the mood for fun, so consider going wine tasting at local wineries.

Places to stay: The Virginia Hotel and Cottages; Sea Crest Inn; Blue Fish Inn; The Grand Hotel; Beach Plum Farm

10 Year Anniversary All-Inclusive Vacations

There's something to be said for a stay at an all-inclusive. You have food and entertainment at your fingertips, and you can venture off to explore as much or as little as you'd like. For your 10-year anniversary celebration, you may be thinking an all-inclusive is best. Leaving the planning to someone else has much appeal—looking at a list of daily resort activities is not a heavy lift. You pick what you fancy and just decide how much fun you want to have. Sounds perfect, right?

Serenity at Coconut Bay, Saint Lucia

Serenity at Coconut Bay all-inclusive 10 year anniversary resort

There's something special about St. Lucia, and it's the Pitons. The dormant volcanoes are two marvels of nature on the island's southwestern coast. Gros Piton is more than 2,500 feet high and Petit Piton is over 2,400 feet high. They are part of the magic, along with the bluest of seas, white sand and exotic greenery. The stage is set by nature, and Serenity at Coconut Bay takes care of the rest.

This adults-only resort has anniversary celebration written all over it. With just 36 plunge-pool suites, there are no crowds. Enjoy the coziness of lavish amenities like the private "backyard" patio with a plunge pool, a waterfall, hammocks, an outdoor shower and a wet bar. Suites are plush; think vaulted ceilings, four-poster, king-size mahogany beds, oversized soaker tubs and showers with plenty of room for two. Your butler will take care of anything. Serenity is part of the larger Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa next door, which gives you access to amenities like restaurants and a waterpark.

P.O. Box 246, Eau Piquant, Saint Lucia

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Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

Castle Hot Springs 10 year all-inclusive resort in Arizona

The hot springs are just part of this wellness retreat in the Sonoran desert. Here, couples can also meditate, indulge in sound baths, get a chakra tune up, and do breathwork, yoga, Tai chi and more. The backdrop of the Bradshaw Mountains adds to the serenity. For the couple looking for a rejuvenating 10-year anniversary celebration, you'll be set for that reset. But if you want to mix it up and also go for adventure, you can, whether it's hiking, taking a canyon walk, axe throwing or the Ferrata climbing course. Your bungalow with its fireplace is a respite. Bathe privately in natural spring waters in a stone tub gazing at the mountain peaks. A babbling creek provides a soothing soundtrack during your stay.

5050 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown, AZ 85342

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Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

The Spice Island Beach Resort is on the infamous Grand Anse Beach in Grenada. With just 64 luxury, villa-style suites, the setting is intimate. You'll only celebrate your 10th anniversary once, so consider going for a luxury suite, which has a private pool, a four-poster king bed and a deep soaking tub. Recall memories strolling the two miles of beach. Paddleboard, kayak, snorkel, dive or hop on a Hobie Cat. Bike, play tennis or play golf at nearby Grenada Golf and Country Club. There's beachside yoga and the Janissa Spa to put you two in a peaceful state. The resort's restaurant, Oliver's, is one of the island's most upscale dining spots. The cuisine is Caribbean-Creole, and there are live calypso and reggae bands.

P.O. Box Six, St. George's, Grenada

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Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Mexico

You'll be happy you checked in here and sad when it's time to say goodbye. The Grand Velas Riviera Maya is luxury at its finest. It scores high on the romance meter, being set on more than 200 acres of jungle and mangroves, with white sand beaches aplenty. Sweeter still are the various suite options—all are 1,100 square feet, have balconies, and some even have private plunge pools.

Feast at eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings. The resort's Cocina de Autor holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. The bar is high at the Se Spa, too. At more than 90,000 square feet, it has bragging rights for being the region's largest spa. It gets kudos for its authentic Mexican treatments, as well as offerings from around the globe—not to mention their signature seven-step water journey. Couples can enjoy stargazing with Champagne or a seaside picnic on a private spot in the sand. Talk about romance.

Riviera Maya, Carretera Cancun Tulum Km 62 Playa Del Carmen, 77710 Riviera Maya, Q.R., Mexico

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