15 Ideas for a Truly Memorable 40th Birthday Party

Sure, this sounds extravagant. But think about it like this: You're with your closest loved ones, with the fresh air on your face, and the gorgeous coastline in the distance. Sounds pretty nice, right? Now just imagine when someone pops a bottle of champagne in your honor.

Plan a vacation where the one rule is that you have to get to the destination using a first-class ticket. Whether it's a short trip from New York to Miami or a longer jaunt between Los Angeles and Charleston, sipping complimentary champagne in A1 will start it off in style.

If there's a buzzed-about restaurant in town and you want to treat yourself to a new menu, then make a reservation at the chef's table for a fresh vantage point, too.

If you've been waiting and waiting to see Hamilton, or there's another playbill that has caught your eye, now is the time to treat yourself. Splurge for the closest possible seats, and go for cake after the final curtain.

What if you've always wanted to go bungee jumping or swimming with sharks? Whatever you've debated doing for fun over the years, but ended up talking yourself out of, now is the time to go for it. Just make sure one of your friends is ready with a camera.

Tourists have notoriously bad reputations, but really, sometimes they see the best a place has to offer. Instead of balking at the bus tours or waving off certain crowded landmarks, join in. See the view from the top of the Empire State Building in the morning before the lines are long, go white-water rafting in the Grand Canyon, or rent a convertible to drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. It's worth it.

A spa is always an escape from the hectic pace of life, and that's why it can be particularly rewarding as a birthday present. Research spas that have the best massages, or soaking pools, or even views, and head there for a weekend.

If you've been going to the same restaurant for years, ask if you can create a menu of your favorite things to enjoy with a small group.

Again, this sounds incredibly extravagant. But if you're able to see a beloved band or performer—cough, Beyoncé, cough—then make it 40th birthday-worthy and splurge for the box seats. As you eat and dance in the privacy of your own space, you'll be glad you did.

It's possible to rent classic casino tables alongside professional dealers who will set everything up in your home. Invite friends and family to dress up, and then play to win.

Gather your closest friends and take a trip to a new city of your choice, whether that's lively Austin, Texas or more relaxed Napa, California. Make sure the master suite is all yours, and then go explore.

This might sound like it could be a lot of work, but not if you designate a few close friends and family as organizers and cleaners. When the big day comes, you can simply head from your bedroom to the party.

It's clear where this idea came from, but it still works. Use your dining table to display food and drinks elsewhere and even exchange your everyday lighting fixture for a disco ball. It'll truly be a night to remember!

Think of a movie that always brings a smile to your face. Now imagine watching it from your decked-out backyard, which can be decorated with string lights, cozy blankets, and plenty of lawn chairs. Also make sure that there's enough popcorn and snacks for everyone, too.

This idea might just turn into a weekly event after your friends enjoy the throwback fun of this competitive game. Plus you get to pick the team name. Bonus points if everyone has a personalized bowling shirt to wear as they play, too.