7 Popular Graduation Trip Destinations

By Alexandra Brown on May 3, 2015

With warmer weather, an increased amount of homework, projects, papers and exams, it’s becoming that time: the end of the semester.

For some of us college students, this only means taking a short, three month break from academia to work, play, and enjoy ourselves before starting up again in the fall.

For seniors, this means enjoying the last few weeks to be spent on campus, and then a full summer, before venturing out into the world and actually working and contributing to society.

Before this somewhat stressful shift into the real world, college seniors have the summer to relax, and if they’re lucky, take a graduation trip.

A graduation trip to somewhere outside of the United States is obviously the most attractive choice when deciding where to travel, but there are also destinations within the country that would be a lot of fun for college students as well.

Here are seven graduation trip ideas for college graduates.

1. Cancun, Mexico

If you were a typical college spring break participant, then you probably made one or more trips to Mexico. However, this time, you’re not under the stresses of any midterm exams, papers, or projects, and you’re ready to enjoy yourself and celebrate working hard for four years.

Cancun has everything you need to completely relax and enjoy yourself: beautiful beaches and scenery, warm weather, luxurious spas, and an overall tropical atmosphere that you never get to experience.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

If you’re looking for more of an adventure outside your comfort zone, take a trip to Peru and visit the 15th century Inca site you learned about in grade school and have always been curious about.

In the summer months, temperatures aren’t as high as what you may be used to, but they’re manageable, and a nice alternative to the extremely hot season in the United States.

With a trip like this, you’ll not only get out of your comfort zone, but you’ll learn a lot about something you probably know little to nothing about, and you’ll always remember the unique experience.

3. London, England

Although it may seem cliché, a trip to London, if you’ve never been, can be a lot of fun, and a memorable experience as well.

You can finally say you’ve visited all the tourist attractions of the fine city that you’ve seen in movies, such as Big Ben, The London Eye, Buckingham Palace, the Natural History Museum, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

You can also enjoy upscale shopping at Harrods, as well as experience some of the best dining in the world. Another plus: they speak English!

4. Santorini, Greece

If you’ve never been to Greece, do yourself a favor and visit one of the breathtaking and romantic Cyclades islands of Greece, Santorini.

There is truly nowhere like Santorini, complete with its architecture, culture, and physical appearance. Enjoy art, wine, beautiful beaches, and incredible views to take in.

Also, if you’ve ever read “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” you’ll finally get to experience what Lena did, and understand why she was so in love with the island.

5. San Francisco, California

Although this destination is in the United States, if you’ve never been to the city, or California, San Francisco would make for a great graduation trip.

The city is beautiful, with sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, and Ghirardelli Square. You can also indulge in your wine obsession by visiting Napa Valley, which is only about 50 miles from the city, known as one of the two largest grape-growing areas in California.

The city also offers everyday aspects you might not be used to seeing where you live, but might be exciting to experience, like cable cars and its hilly makeup.

You can also learn a lot by visiting the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, as well as Alcatraz Island, where the infamous Alcatraz penitentiary is located.

6. Las Vegas, Nevada

Maybe you never got to experience the classic 21-year-old birthday celebration of taking a trip to Vegas. Well, here’s your chance.

You’re 21 or over, on your own, and ready to relax and enjoy yourself after graduation. Take a trip with your friends to Vegas and have an unforgettable time enjoying the casinos, dining, and fabulous hotels and pools.

A trip to Vegas might even feel a lot like college, but that’s okay, you’re going to miss those four years, and what better way to celebrate than having one last hurrah?

7. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Going to Myrtle Beach for graduation might feel extremely similar to a spring break trip you took in college, but nonetheless, you’ll have a blast. The beautiful weather, beach, outdoor concerts, shopping, and lively nightlife will serve as a perfect formula to relax and enjoy yourself after graduation.

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