It’s Tax Day, folks! You filed your paperwork (hopefully not at 11:59 PM last night), and now the hard part is over. While the stress of tax season is officially behind you, the best part is just beginning. That’s right, it’s tax refund time!
If Uncle Sam blessed you with a fat chunk of change this year, you’re probably already daydreaming of ways to spend it. White sand beaches or a weekend shopping spree? We’re here to give you some inspo and make sure your refund does the most for you.
Here are 6 fabulous places worth your tax refund cash and some tips on how to splurge once you get there:
California Wine Country
Celebrate that tax refund with a drink — or a whole bottle — in Napa and Sonoma Valleys — California’s renowned wine country! While it may sound like a pricey destination, there are ways to stretch your return cash from Uncle Sam and indulge in some of the world’s finest wines.
To start your adventure, we recommend flying into San Francisco for its abundance of flight options and picturesque sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito. Then, make your way to Napa and Sonoma Valleys to visit some of the area’s iconic wineries, such as Opus One, Cakebread Cellars, and Sutter Home, all with deep roots in the region.
In addition to wine tastings, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, including hot air balloon rides, bike tours, and even a luxury train that will take you on a culinary journey through the valley. And Out In The Vineyard, slated for July 18-20, is an annual 3-day weekend featuring LGBTQ+ events highlighted by the popular Twilight T-Dance, wine and culinary delights, a drag queen brunch and a wine auction benefiting Face to Face, Sonoma County HIV/AIDS Network.
So why not raise a glass to us for suggesting this memorable tax refund trip to Napa and Sonoma Valleys? Cheers! And please remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Key West, FL
We know what you’re thinking. Florida, really? Yes, really. Sure, the Sunshine State might immediately bring to mind some questionable politics and less-than-welcoming headlines. But don’t dismiss it altogether just yet. There’s more to the Southernmost city in the U.S. than meets the eye, and we’re here to spill tea on why it’s worth a closer look.
From its origins as a haven for a mix of cultures including Native Americans, Spanish, freed slaves, seafarers, queers, and creatives, Key West has always embraced diversity and openness. In fact, the island even sided with the North during the Civil War.
Unlike other Florida cities, Key West’s charm and laid-back Caribbean vibe has earned it the nickname “Unflorida.” With beautiful scenery, sunny weather, and a devil-may-care lifestyle that’s just one drink away from hedonism, Key West offers a truly unique vacation experience. Plus, you can save spending some of your refund on a bathing suit since clothing is optional at Island House or New Orleans House!
Hawaii
If you’ve always dreamed of visiting Hawaii but something always gets in the way, now is the perfect time to make it happen with your fat refund! Contrary to popular belief, a Hawaiian getaway doesn’t have to break the bank, but keep in mind that it is quite far, especially if you’re coming from the eastern side of North America.
Thankfully, Hawaiian Airlines offers a nonstop flight from New York-JFK to Honolulu, making the trip seem a bit more manageable. Once you arrive, there are plenty of affordable things to do, like enjoying the beautiful beaches, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
Before you go, it’s worth knowing that Hawaii is made up of eight main islands, but for your first visit, you’ll probably want to focus on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island. Oahu, home to Waikiki and Honolulu, is a great place to start your adventure, and renting a car is recommended to explore beyond Waikiki.
For a week-long trip, consider spending three days in Honolulu and the rest of your time on another island. Don’t try to cram too many islands into a short period, as each island has plenty to offer. And while you may be tempted to see it all on your first visit, trust us, you’ll want to come back for more.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Hawaii, and don’t forget to save a Mai Tai for us!
Washington, D.C.
Yes, the current political climate might feel… rough (understatement of the year?), but Washington DC isn’t just about who’s in power. It’s about what it stands for. The history, the stories, the people. Plus, it feels patriotic (right?) to spend that refund in the capital. And hey, at least the Smithsonian’s still free.
Start with the National Air and Space Museum. Ever wanted to sit in a retro airline cabin or peek inside a 747 cockpit? Of course you have. Pretend you’re a pilot for a hot minute before heading to the next spot.
Directly off the National Mall is the Holocaust Museum. And listen, I know we’re here for fun, but this isn’t just another museum. It’s a must. The exhibitions are powerful, educational, and tastefully done. You’ll walk through decades of history, from the rise of Nazi Germany to stories of survival and liberation. Bring tissues (seriously). It’s heavy, but extremely worth it.
This trip is also a good chance to snap a mirror selfie at D.C.’s popular queer bar: Little Gay Pub.
Yellowstone
When Uncle Sam hopefully, probably, maybe gives you back some hard-earned cash this year, go with Yellowstone National Park. It’s also the perfect destination for an Earth Day trip and with over 2.2 million acres to explore, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to see.
One of the must-see attractions is Old Faithful Geyser, but don’t stop there! The park is filled with hot springs, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers that are sure to take your breath away. And, of course, you’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife that’s rarely seen outside of a zoo. From elk and mountain goats to buffalo, moose, and bears, Yellowstone is a nature lover’s paradise.
While the park is accessible year-round, May is a great time to visit when the majority of the park is open and the weather is milder. Getting to the park is easy, with five main gates and several airports nearby. Cody, Wyoming is the closest airport, but Billings, Montana, and Jackson Hole are also popular options. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park!
Las Vegas, NV
Looking for a destination to splurge your extra cash? Look no further than Las Vegas! With endless opportunities to indulge, from high-end dining to thrilling casino games, Sin City is the perfect place to spend your extra money.
Maximize your Las Vegas experience by searching for package deals. And don’t miss out on the city’s renowned entertainment. Check out Tix4Tonight for discounted, same-day tickets to some of the hottest shows in town. Or, try your luck at the blackjack table for a chance to double that refund.