Welcome to the first installment in this summer's "Lawyers Need Vacations Too" blog series! Today, we're covering the best getaways for a legal-themed trip. Odds are, you've already got your vacation plans locked in, but just in case you don't (or you're looking for an idea for next summer), this is the blog for you!
Before you panic or click away...a legal-themed vacation does not mean spending your precious beach trip reading case law under an umbrella (or enjoying 30% off on-demand CLE that fits your schedule, wink wink). The best legal getaways combine travel, culture, history, networking, and yes...maybe even a little CLE along the way if you've got the bandwidth. And we've got the perfect destinations that offer something uniquely appealing for all attorneys.
So pack your suitcase! We're headed to Europe!
Germany. If you've ever wanted to combine CLE with international travel, the Pennsylvania Bar Association's upcoming trip to Germany might be one of the most unique legal getaways available. Between its rich legal history, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks, Germany offers plenty for attorneys to appreciate both professionally and personally. Best of all, you can earn credits while on an exciting adventure abroad!
The tour winds through Berlin, Potsdam, Nuremberg, and Munich, with plenty of opportunities to step inside famous museums and witness notable legal institutions. You'll even walk in the city where they held the famous post-World War II Nuremberg Trials. This trip is certain to leave you feeling inspired and educated! Sign up here and we'll see you in September.
London, England. For attorneys interested in the roots of the legal profession itself, few destinations compare to London. As the birthplace of common law, this city is packed with legal history at every turn. From the Inns of Court to the Old Bailey, London offers countless opportunities to explore the foundations that shaped much of the American legal system. Even outside of formal legal landmarks, the city carries a sense of history that feels especially meaningful for lawyers.
Of course, it doesn't hurt that London also happens to offer unique foods, theatres, museums, and pubs. Legal history by day...fish and chips by night.
Let's head back to our great nation for the rest of our getaway list...
Oahu, Hawaii. Hawaii might not come to mind first when you think of a legal-themed getaway. But behind the beaches and breathtaking scenery lies a fascinating intersection of environmental law, land use issues, water rights, and Native Hawaiian legal history. Oahu in particular offers a unique blend of culture, government, and environmental significance. Lawyers interested in environmental law or public policy can find plenty to appreciate, all while enjoying one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the world.
And if you can get away with pairing legal study with ocean views and Hawaiian shaved ice, why wouldn't you?
Seven Springs Resort, Champion, PA. "Whoa...why is that so specific?" you may be wondering. Because this is the location of the Pennsylvania Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Summer Summit! If your ideal getaway includes networking, professional development, and a little summer fun, then this event deserves a spot on your list. Held in a relaxed resort setting, the Summit blends CLE, social events, and opportunities to connect with attorneys across the state.
What makes this trip especially appealing is the balance. You can attend educational sessions during the day, then unwind with colleagues afterwards in a more relaxed environment in the evening. For younger attorneys, it's a great reminder that career development can happen in any setting.
Washington, D.C. For lawyers who love legal history, Washington, D.C. is the ultimate destination. Few places are more closely tied to the American legal system than the nation's capital. A visit to the U.S. Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, or the National Archives can turn even the most casual history buff into a full-blown constitutional law enthusiast! Add in monuments, museums, and fabulous restaurants, then you've got a truly unforgettable trip unfolding in front of you.
D.C. also happens to be one of the easiest places to stumble upon legal conferences, policy discussions, and networking opportunities...if you're into that sort of thing on vacation.
Sometimes the best trips are the ones that combine personal interests with opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with others in meaningful ways. There's no reason a lawyer's vacation can't be both enriching and relaxing. After all...lawyers need vacations too!
Where is PBI headed this summer?
"I've always wanted to visit Italy since my family's Italian! This will be my second international trip (my first was to Japan last year!) and my first time to Europe. I'm looking forward to the food the most...especially the gelato!"
-Taylor, Creative Growth Marketer
"Myrtle Beach, SC. Seeing as many sunsets and sunrises on the beach as I want and traveling to Charleston for the day!" -Jenn, CX and Events Operations
"Sunny & 75" - Sydney, CLE Admin./In-Person Staff Coordinator
"With close family residing in Asheville, NC, I spend many vacations in the Blue Ridge Mountains. My latest vacation included unwinding mountainside with a restorative sauna steam and invigorating cold plunge. The perfect blend of relaxation, sweeping views, and renewal." -Kali, Legal Education Program Manager
