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19+ Best Party Cities in the USA (with incredible nightlife!)

Are you looking for the best party cities in the USA? We are here to help! 

Whether you are planning a party vacation, a bachelorette party or just want to have fun, choosing the ideal destination is an important thing.

In this article, you will discover the American cities with the best nightlife. We’ve selected various places including famous cities and smaller party towns .

Wild nights, classy evenings… there is a bit of everything here but no matter what, you can be sure of one thing: you are going to have fun!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

New Orleans, Louisiana

Located in Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the top party cities in the USA. 

Although the city is beautiful during the day, with its French-inspired buildings and vibe, it’s at night that it truly starts to live.

The city is home to one of the most famous party streets in the USA: Bourbon Street.

Situated in the French Quarter, Bourbon Street is where you will find most bars, restaurants and clubs.

It’s also a great place to listen to live music. If you like jazz and local bands, head to Frenchmen Street.

Here are a few ideas of things to do in New Orleans at night: 

• Pub crawl in the French Quarter. Perfect to discover the best bars in the area and have fun! See prices.
• Sing karaoke at Kajun’s Pub. If you are looking for something different and want to have fun with your friends, this karaoke will be perfect!
• Pub Crawl and Jazz Music in Frenchmen Street. This one is ideal for the party ladies and gentlemen who want to discover some hidden gems as well. See prices.
• Party Bike Bar Booze Cruise. This is a super fun thing to do in New Orleans. Have you heard of party bikes before? Well, that’s the same thing but in a boating version. See prices.
• Clubbing on Bourbon Street. Although it is pretty touristy, Bourbon Street is still an excellent place for people who want to go from one club to another.
• Grab a glass of wine at Bayou Wine Garden. If you want to start in a classy bar, this wine bar will be ideal for you.

Looking for something a bit different? Head to Erin Rose Irish, an Irish pub in the French Quarter, and order a Frozen Irish Coffee.

WHERE TO STAY: Homewood Suites By Hilton is a stunning hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s within walking distance from Bourbon Street which is very handy.

The amenities include a swimming pool, private parking and a garden. Click here to see the prices.

Key West, Florida

Located at the very end of the Florida Keys , Key West is famous for many things and partying is one of them!

It’s one of the most popular winter party spots in the USA. Although you can visit all year round, December to April is the best time of the year. It’s warm (perfect to avoid the cold of winter) and not humid yet.

Read more: Discover the best Bachelorette destinations in Florida.

The main street is called Duval Street. That’s where you will find most bars and restaurants. It’s a very unique place to discover as there is a bit of everything here. Irish pubs next to Texan Saloon… it’s very good fun!

Here are a few things to do to party in Key West :

• Grab a drink and enjoy the sunset celebration on Mallory Square.
• Pub crawl on Duval Street. This is the best place for bar hopping. You can choose to do it on your own or can join an organised pub crawl. See prices here.
• Sip cocktails. Duval Street is home to amazing cocktail bars you shouldn’t miss out on! You can also join a cocktail tour if you want. Prices here.
• Go on a party cruise. Florida is all about water and cruising is a popular activity. To start off your night, this party cruise is a great thing to do. See prices here.
• Go dancing! There are many clubs on Duval Street but the best thing about Key West is that you will feel very free. People dance in the street and no one cares! Do the same. Just relax and let the music carry you.

Want to learn more? Discover our ultimate Key West Itinerary. And if you were looking for the best party vacation spots in USA, the Florida Keys in general are a good spot. You can party in Key West and enjoy cool activities in the Keys during the day.

Las Vegas, Nevada

It would be impossible to talk about nightlife cities in the USA without mentioning Vegas.

This is the ultimate destination to party in the USA!

You will find most restaurants, bars and clubs on the strip but Vegas is also famous for its pool parties. If you want to get the full party experience, make sure to add this to your bucket list!

Here are a few fun things to do in Las Vegas at night: 

• Sipping cocktails while looking at the beautiful views of the city from the rooftop of the Legacy Club.
• Bar Crawl On Fremont Street. This is one of the best places to go for drinks and dancing. You can hop from bar to bar on your own or join a local guide who will show you the best spots. See prices here.
• Club crawl . There are more clubs that you can count in Vegas and trying a few of them is a must do. If you want to get to visit 5 of them in the same night with skip-the-line tickets, consider joining a club crawl. This includes Hyde at the Bellagio, Omnia at Caesars, Hakkasan at MGM Grand and Light at the Mandalay Bay. See prices here.
• Pool parties & party bus . As previously mentioned, pool parties are big in Vegas. If you want to try a few of them as well as dancing in a party bus, you can easily do so! Check prices here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Choosing your accommodation is one of the most important things in Vegas because it can truly enhance your party experience.

Here are some recommendations of places to stay in Vegas.

• Wynn Las Vegas is one of the most luxurious resorts in Vegas. It’s perfect for people who want to experience everything Vegas has to offer. You’ll find waterfalls, pools, a spa and even 2 of the most famous nightclubs on the strip. See prices here.
• The Venetian Resort is one of the most famous hotels in Las Vegas. It’s an excellent base for party people. You will have access to everything you may ever need. On top of that, you will discover some very unique features such as the Venetian gondolas. See prices.

Miami, Florida

When it comes to the best places to party in the US, Miami sets the standard.

It’s the perfect destination for people looking for sunshine, heat, cocktails on the beach and pool parties.

Although there are nice places in Downtown Miami, it’s Miami Beach that is particularly well known for its nightlife.

You will find many bars and restaurants along Ocean Drive and the art deco district.

If you are looking for a cool and hipster place to grab drinks, you can head to Wynwood. This district is famous for street art but also has loads of quirky cocktail bars.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Miami at night: 

• Evening boat tour with champagne . You can go on a private boat tour in the evening and enjoy the bay while sipping champagne. How cool is that? See prices here.
• Dancing at Do Not Sit On The Furniture . This cozy boutique club is one of the best and most unique clubs in Miami.
• Wynwood Graffiti Bar Tour . If you are spending the evening in Wynwood, you should opt for the pub bike. It’s such a fun thing to do! You will be biking around the district, discovering the murals while enjoying drinks. It’s a great activity to try with friends, on a bachelorette weekend or even as a solo traveler. See prices here.
• Salsa & Mojito night . This is the perfect thing to do in Miami at night as it is such a tropical activity. You can book a Salsa and Mojito night which includes both lessons and drinks. See prices here.
• Go to a pool party. There are many pool parties all around Miami Beach so make sure to check out what is on and give it a go!

READ MORE: Discover the best photo spots in Miami here.

New York City, New York

There isn’t much that you can’t find in New York City and bars, clubs and restaurants are definitely something you will find in quantity.

NYC is one of the cities with the best nightlife in the US and if you love to party, you will be in for a treat!

You can find amazing bars and clubs everywhere you go in the city but there are a few neighborhoods particularly known for their nightlife.

They are The East Village, West Village and Lower East Side in Manhattan and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. The Meatpacking District is also worth a visit.

Here are some more ideas of things to do in NYC at night: 

• Nightlife tour of the Meatpacking District . Discover more about this hipster neighborhood with a local guide. You’ll get a drink in each bar you stop at! See prices.
• East Village Happy Hour tour. You will explore the best parts of Manhattan for nightlife, sip on cocktails and discover some micro distilleries. See prices here.
• Pub Crawl in the West Village . You’ll discover the best bars in Greenwich Village. The tour includes drinks, and places with ping pong, karaoke and live music. See prices here.
• Partying on a rooftop. There are many rooftop bars and clubs in NYC and they should be on your bucket list. You’ll get to admire the city skyline while drinking delicious cocktails. A.R.T. SoHo in the West Village is a cute rooftop bar, worth your time. You can also join a rooftop tour of NYC. See prices.
• Speakeasy tour of NYC. New York City is famous for its speakeasies, especially the historic ones that date back to the 20s. If you want to do something a bit unique and meet new people, this will be perfect.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the perfect destination for people who want to enjoy the nightlife but not necessarily party hard.

Although you can party hard in SF, there are better places for that (like Las Vegas for example). 

San Francisco offers a broader range of activities for people who want to party but in a more relaxed way.

Wine bars, beer bars, quirky restaurants… There is a bit of everything here and that’s why it’s considered one of the best nightlife cities in the US.

Here are the best neighbourhoods in San Francisco for nightlife: 

• Union Square for cocktails.
• Mission for dive bars. Head to Valencia Street to discover the local bars. There usually is live music here.
• SoMa for clubbing . 11th Street is home to many clubs where you can dance all night long!
• Embarcadero for wine. If you’d rather have a good glass of wine instead of hard core partying, the Embarcadero will be the perfect spot for you.
• Polk Street for bar hopping. There are many bars all along the street and it’s very hood fun to go from one to another

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is known as the capital of country music. Through the years, it has been home to some of the most famous country artists in the world, including Johnny Cash, and is still a paradise for musicians.

It is such a fun place to visit and one of the best US cities for nightlife. 

Nashville is quite different from the other American party cities mentioned in this article. Whereas most places “only” offer clubs and bars, Nashville has much more in store.

When it comes to party activities, you will be spoilt for choice!

You can find below some ideas of fun and unique party things to do in Nashville:

• Watching a show at Grand Ole Opry . This is one of the most famous country music venues in the world and a must do while visiting Nashville. See prices here.
• Party Tractor Tour. This one is such an unusual activity but if you love to party, you will want to do it! Whereas most places in the world have party buses, there is a party tractor in Nashville. It includes a dance floor and bar onboard. Super fun! See prices here.
• Pub crawl in Nashville . With all the bars and local beers available in the city, there is a lot to discover. To make it easy, opt for a pub crawl with craft beers and cocktails. Prices here.
• Golf Bar Game . This is a fun way to start your night. Instead of going straight for a bar, you can go to a golf bar. You’ll get to play golf and sip on a few drinks. See prices.
• Party Bus . This is perfect for visitors who want to explore the city and party at the same time. You’ll be at the back of a roofless party bus where you can dance, drink and sightsee at the same time. See prices.
• Line dancing . The last but not the least. Who says country music says line dancing! Not only is it great fun but it’s also a bucket list item that shouldn’t be missed. See prices.

Chicago, Illinois

When it comes to party cities in America, Chicago is still a pretty underrated destination. 

It’s not as famous as some of the other cities mentioned in this article but it’s still one of the best places to party in the USA.

In Chicago, you will find delicious food (hello deep dish pizza!), an impressive range of bars and some of the best nightclubs in the USA. Unlike NYC or Miami, you won’t find that many fancy rooftop bars.

It’s more down-to-earth and authentic here.

Now, let’s talk about the best places to visit in Chicago at night:

• River North is the most famous neighborhood in Chicago for nightlife, especially Hubbard Street. You’ll find more bars and clubs that you can count here and it is super lively. You are in for a wild night here.
• Wrigleyville is another all-time favourite amongst both locals and visitors. You will find an impressive number of bars here, perfect for a pub crawl.
• Milwaukee Avenue is the perfect place for people looking for something a bit different. Hipster bars, cocktail bars… there is a bit of everything here.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: River North is the best area to stay in Chicago for nightlife. It’s likely to be the neighborhood where you will spend the most time and it’s also a pleasant area during the day.

San Diego, California

San Diego is one of the best beach party vacation spots in America. 

Famous for its proximity to Mexico, beautiful beaches and attractions, San Diego is the ideal destination for a group of friends who want to take a real vacation on top of partying.

It’s also an excellent place for a bachelorette party.

The best neighborhood for nightlife in San Diego is Gaslamp Quarter. It’s home to hundreds of bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

No matter what you are into, you will find it here. It’s also worth noting that all these places are gathered into 16 walkable city blocks which is particularly convenient.

Here are some ideas of things to do in San Diego at night:

• Start off your night with a sunset cruise . This is a great way to “warm up” as you will get some drinks and can watch the beautiful sunset from a boat. See prices.
• Pub crawl in Gaslamp Quarter. You will discover the best venues with a local guide. Drinks are not included but you’ll get to skip the lines which is always a great thing. See prices.
• Try local beer at Polite Provisions. It’s a very unique bar with a retro style and delicious drinks on the menu.
• Order a cocktail at The Grass Skirt. This tiki bar with Polyneasian decor is perfect for people who want to start the night in an unique venue.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is known in the entire world for being one of the biggest party cities in the US.

If you are looking for a destination where you can party hard, go to the beach and have fun in the theme parks, L.A. will be your paradise.

West Hollywood and Beverly Hills are the best neighborhoods when it comes to nightlife. That’s where you will find all the rooftop bars and trendy cocktail spots.

If you want something a bit more laid-back, head to Santa Monica or Silver Lake.

Here are some ideas of cool things to do in Los Angeles at night:

• Club crawl in Hollywood . Discover the best nightclubs in Hollywood with this local tour. It includes skip-the-line which is very handy. See prices.
• Going to a latin club. Downtown LA is home to many latin clubs where you dance all night. It’s super fun and nothing beats the atmosphere of a latin bar!
• Club crawl in Downtown LA . Downtown is also home to many EDM clubs. Opting for a club crawl is ideal for people who want to discover the best clubs and not have to wait to go in. See prices.

Looking for something a bit different and classy to do during the day? Opt for a hippie VW tour of Malibu with wine tasting. See prices here.

Austin, Texas

Let’s head to Texas now! Not only is Austin the capital of the state but it’s also home to some of the biggest universities in the country making it one of the best party vacation destinations!

If you love live music and friendly locals, you will be in for a treat here as Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World”.

To start off your night, head to Rainey Street. It’s the perfect place for bar-hopping. You’ll find a row of old houses that were converted into bars, it’s so cute!

Then head to Sixth Street in Downtown Austin. This is the ultimate nightlife street and is known as the entertainment district. That’s where you will find all the clubs and bars.

Finally, if you want to do like the locals and discover hidden gems, make sure to go to East Austin for a few drinks.

Here are some ideas of party things to do in Austin:

• Go to a rooftop bar. Nothing better than rooftop bars to enjoy the views of the city. If you are looking for something a bit unique, head to Upstairs at Caroline and order their Key Lime Fizz.
• Go on a Austin Speakeasy Cocktail Tour . You will discover the best speakeasy bars in town including some hidden gems! See prices here.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

If you are looking for a smaller Vegas alternative on the East Coast, look no further. Atlantic City will be perfect for you!

It’s one of the best small party towns in the USA. Home to many casinos and shops, Atlantic City is also a popular bachelor party destination.

Finally, it’s a great weekend getaway from New York City.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Atlantic City at night: 

• Grab a pint at The Irish Pub. As the name suggests, this is an Irish pub. It’s a great place to start the night and get a few drinks.
• Dancing at Boogie Nights. This is the ideal place for people who like disco nights. This old school nightclub is so much fun! You’ll feel like you are back in the 70s/80s.
• HQ2 Nightclub. This one is completely different as it is a fancy nightclub. If you are looking for somewhere high-end, that will be the perfect choice. 

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is famous in the entire world for being the home of the Blues and the birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

It was the home of Elvis Presley and a lot of famous singers were born in Memphis (including Justin Timberlake!).

Music is in Memphis’ soul and that’s why the nightlife is so great.

If you are looking for the best summer party cities in the US, make sure to consider Memphis as you will not be disappointed.

The most famous nightlife street in Memphis is Beale Street. It’s a bit of the equivalent of Bourbon Street in New Orleans. That’s where you will find most bars, restaurants and clubs.

As a general thing, the whole of Downtown is a good nightlife spot here so you’ll have many options.

And if you are looking for some fun things to do at night, check these out:

• Pedal Tavern Pub Crawl in Downtown Memphis. This is so much fun. You will be on a pedal bar and will make your way around downtown while enjoying your drinks. See prices.
• Haunted pub crawl . If you love both ghost stories and pub crawls, this will be perfect for you! You get to do both at once. See prices.
• Brewery tour . If you want to start the evening easy, you can opt for a bus tour of the local breweries.You will discover three local craft breweries and a drink in each. See prices.

Tampa, Florida

Located in central Florida , Tampa is one of the best beach party cities in the US.

It’s very lively and the locals are always down for some fun.

The best places for nightlife are the Riverwalk, Downtown and Ybor City.

Ybor City is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets . It’s known for its Cuban influence and is a great place to go to if you like bar hopping. Authentic Cuban restaurants, cocktail bars, dive bars, Italian bars… There is a bit of everything here.

Here are a few things you can do in Tampa to enjoy the nightlife:

• Drink martinis at Bernini in Ybor. Located on the main strip of Ybor, Bernini offers $3 martini during their happy hour (until 7PM). Not only are they delicious and cheap but the selection is also huge. Coconut, espresso, chocolate… you name it, they have it!
• Play a game of cornhole on the Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is full of bars with huge outdoor space (this is Florida after all, we spend most of our time outside!). A few of them have outdoor games that you can play like cornhole. It’s very good fun.
• Tropical Party Cruise in St Pete or Clearwater Beach . The great thing about Tampa is that it’s ideally located near two of the best party towns in the US: St Pete and Clearwater Beach. Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, these 2 locations are also known for their party cruises. See prices here.

READ MORE: 22 Best Day Trips From Tampa, Florida

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and is particularly famous for its amazing nightlife.

Ideally located near some famous universities such as Harvard, there are a lot of students in Boston and who says students, says nightlife.

As well as being one of the best nightlife cities in US, Boston is also a beautiful place to explore during the day. Cobble stones, local markets… it truly has it all and will be perfect for a weekend getaway .

Here are some ideas of things to do in Boston at night:

• Going for drinks in Downtown Boston. You will find all sorts of bars here, perfect to start the night.
• Brewery tour of Boston . This is a nice way to start your evening since you’ll get to sample 12 beers and learn plenty about the most famous breweries in Boston
• Cocktails & Rum Evening Cruise . What better way to enjoy Boston at night than going on a cocktail cruise in Boston Harbor. You’ll get to enjoy some lovely drinks and look at the lights while listening to music and having fun with your friends.
• Going to a nightclub in the Theater District . This is one of the best places for nightlife in Boston. You can find all the theatres, many music venues and of course nightclubs to finish the night dancing.

Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

While Pittsburg might be a bit underrated by most visitors, it is still one of the best cities to party in USA.

Whether you want to drink, dance or just enjoy live music, you will find everything you need in Pittsburg!

East Carson Street is the main hot spot when it comes to partying in Pittsburg so this should be your first port of call.

Here are some ideas of things to do in the city at night:

• Discovering the speakeasies. There are quite a few Prohibition-themed bars on East Carson Street and these are always good fun. Perfect for people who love cocktails!
• Brewery Tour . If you love beer and want to start the night in a more unique way, this brewery tour of Pittsburg will be perfect for you. You’ll sample 12 beers at 3 different breweries.
• Pittsburgh Bar Hunt . This is an excellent way to discover the party scene in Pittsburg, especially if it’s your first time. You’ll be with a local guide who will take you on a super fun bar crawl around the city.
• Clubbing in the Strip District . You will find many nightclubs there and it’s the perfect place to end the night.

Washington DC

Most people wouldn’t think of Washington DC as the best party city in USA but yet, it has a lot to offer.

Usually what comes to mind when we think of DC is the White House and all these international organizations and of course that’s true but it also means it’s a very international city with a lot of expats.

And expats always enjoy partying. For this reason, DC is a very lively city at night.

Adam’s Morgan and H-Street Corridor are two neighborhood that are particularly well known for being a cool night out.

Here are some ideas of things to do there:

• Going to the bars in H-Street Corridor. Here you will find cool little bars and restaurants, perfect to start the evening.
• Ghost tour Pub Crawl. If you like to do unique and fun activities, this ghost tour / pub crawl is a great way to discover spooky stories as well as cool drinking spots.
• Bar hopping in Adam’s Morgan. You will find many pubs, dive bars and speakeasies in this area. Also, if you want to go dancing, make sure to head to Habana’s Village, it’s a cool Cuban dance club.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is mainly known for its history and being the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak but it’s also one of the US cities with best nightlife.

From cool bars, Irish pubs to dance clubs, it truly has it all!

Center City is one of the best area in Philly for nightlife but Old City, Midtown Village and Fishtown have also a lot to offer.

Here are some recommendations of things to do there:

• Get a pint at McGillin’s Old Ale House . This is the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philly and one of the best places in the city to drink beer.
• Discover the secret bars. There are a lot of secret speakeasies in Philly so if that’s something you’re interested in, make sure to join the secret bar tour . It’s a lot of fun and you’ll discover places you would never have found otherwise.
• Listen to live music at World Café Live . They have two floors of live music available, perfect if you want to start your night with a cool atmosphere and some music.
• Clubbing at NOTO. This is the largest nightclub in Philadelphia and the perfect place to go dancing.

Seattle, Washington

Let’s head to another part of the country to discover another one of the best party cities in USA, Seattle!

Famous for the Space Needle, Grey’s Anatomy and its coffee culture, Seattle is also an excellent place when it comes to the best nightlife in the USA.

Capitol Hill is the number one area for bars and restaurants but Belltown, Downtown, Ballard and Georgetown also have a lot to offer.

Here are some ideas of things to do on a night out in Seattle:

• Bar hopping in Capitol Hill. You’ll find loads of unique bars here as well as the Q Nightclub which is one of the largest in the city. If you are a music fan, make sure to go see the Jimi Hendrix statue as well.
• Cocktail Cruise . This is the perfect way to start your night if you are visiting Seattle for the first time, you’ll get to discover all the sights while sipping on some cocktails.
• Ghost and Pub tour . This is a unique thing to do in Seattle and you’ll discover 3 bars in Seattle while the guide tells you a lot of spooky stories about the city.
• Discover the underground scene in Belltown. This area is famous for the grunge movement and there is very much a rock-and-roll vibe here. A lot of famous bands have performed in bars here including Nirvana.

Final Thoughts: Best Party Cities in America

Now that you know everything about the cities with best nightlife in US, the only thing left to do is to book your trip!

Bear in mind that each city is different and offers nightlife experiences that are unique.

If you like big cities and speakeasies, NYC is the place for you. If you’d rather a full on party vibe with music festivals, Las Vegas will be better.

Also don’t forget that you can also opt for some of the best small party towns in USA such as Key West .

They offer more relaxed vibes (especially the Keys since there are so many beaches around) but still have everything you need for the ultimate night out.

You may also be interested in:

• 16 Fun Spring Break Destinations in the USA
• Florida Bachelorette Party: 8 best bachelorette party destinations in Florida
• 18 Magical Christmas Towns in the USA That You Must Visit This Winter!
• 9 Beautiful Fall Towns in the USA to visit this fall!

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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33 BEST PARTY CITIES IN THE US FOR A FUN TRIP

Whether you want to visit the best party cities in the US for your bachelor’s or bachelorette’s or holidays for unlimited fun and parties, to enjoy nights packed with all sorts of entertainment, the cities warrant more than one visit.

The best nightlife cities in the US offer something for everyone, provided you love loud music and nights full of activities, dances, entertainment, games, and more.

The best party cities are as diverse and distinct as the country, from rooftop bars to casino districts to themed pubs running all night. You may feel overwhelmed deciding your USA party cities, especially if you are unfamiliar with the country.

But we got you covered. This comprehensive post will list the best party destinations in the USA with what they offer, the best time to visit and the things to do to help you plan your fun trip.

Table of Contents

BEST PARTY CITIES IN THE USA

Las vegas, nevada.

One of the best party cities in the USA is Sin City, the official part capital of the world.

Home to thousands of casinos, the most extensive collection of them in the US, excellent nightlife, tons of entertainment, fantastic lighting, renowned DJs, fabulous nightclubs, and glamour makes it one of the most attractive USA party cities for bachelors, bachelorettes, couples, and friends wanting to party hardest.

Las Vegas has also got the second most number of bars in the world after Prague city per a hundred thousand people. It is no surprise given its millions of visitors flocking the city everywhere for unending nights of fun and entertainment.

Everyone knows Las Vegas is the wildest city in America, but you may end up loving or hating the city. No matter what, it is one of the best party cities you should visit to see how you feel.

“What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas” – This famous phrase gives you glimpses of all the sin city offers for fun nights, making it America’s adult playground.

Las Vegas is the city that never stops partying. Thousands of nightclubs, bars, casino centres, hotels, musical concerts, and pubs draw tourists to the city like moths to a flame on the illuminated Strip. 

It is one of the few cities where you will find a nightclub at every hotel on the Las Vegas Strip. 

You can eat a buffet at 3 AM and drive a race car around a track. Pool parties are known to go all day, sometimes even begin during the daytime, followed by decadent stage shows, strip clubs run in all possible themes, and slot machines run all day and night.

The classics top when it comes to experience the best nightlife in Las Vegas. Omnia at Caesars Palace , Bellagio Hotel & Casino and Hakkasan at MGM Grand is for you to spend luxurious nights. 

Get to know all about Las Vegas nightlife in this detailed guide here for other tons of experiences.

If you are not into partying, or your idea of parties does not resonate with any of the above, you are still guaranteed to have a blast in Las Vegas as there are many outdoor activities at night in Sin City. 

Opt for the night food, segway and drinks tours, hop on the bus, visit Neon Museums, and enjoy the landmarks basking in lights.

No matter what you choose, you will have a fantastic time in this best US party city.

RECOMMENDED TOURS

Where to stay, san francisco, california.

One of the popular phrases in America you hear a lot is “The West Coast is the Best Coast.” And we must admit, when it comes to the list of the best party cities in the US, this rings very true.

Suppose you want to experience a typical Californian night out involving a perfect blend of food, arts, nightlife, gorgeous lights and stunning city views. In that case, San Francisco is one of the top party destinations in the United States.

Whether you are a solo traveler, planning a romantic getaway or want to head out with kids, there is something for everyone to enjoy at night in San Francisco .

San Francisco is also one of the best LGBTQ-friendly cities in the US, home to some of the best gay bars and clubs, including drag shows.

The city offers a toned-down version of party hardest, perfect for those preferring something more subtle and less crowded. 

You can choose from a wide variety of themed wine bars, chic cocktail pubs, beer bars, luxurious nightclubs and quirky restaurants.

The SOMA , Downtown and Mission Districts are for you if you prefer loud and crowded ambiences, including hipster hideouts and neon markets.

North Beach is home to many rooftop bars open until the wee hours. Hop on the streetcar to The Castro district, where you can dance the night away.

There are tons of cool things to do in San Francisco at night apart from clubbing and pubbing. 

Watch movies under the stars, and take your inner child on a beautiful journey at the adults-only After Dark at the Exploratorium . 

Want to feel eerie? Take a ghost hunting tour or, better, take a night tour of the famous prison at Alcatraz Island.

• San Francisco: 2-Hour Private Jeep Tour at Night
• San Francisco: City Tour By Night on Hippie Bus
• San Francisco: Panoramic Night Tour
• San Francisco Double Decker Bus Night Tour
• San Francisco: 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off City and Night Tour

NEW YORK CITY

The most populous city in the country, New York is known for many things and is the mainstream destination for food, fashion and the arts, but it stands as one of the best party cities in the US consistently, drawing millions of partygoers every year.

There are plenty of awesome things to do in New York City at night as this cosmopolitan hub transforms into a party destination after the sun goes down and is one of the few cities that never sleep.

Whether you want to indulge in the big-city splendour, exploring some of the best high-end, luxurious strip clubs, pubs, bars, and gambling houses, or you prefer hitting the local and intimate night scenes. You can do both.

From the ever glittering lights at Time Square to trendy cocktail bars and pubs that run until the early morning hours, you can choose your ideas for fun.

The neighbourhoods famous for the best nightlife in NYC are The East Village, West Village, Lower East Side, and midtown in Manhattan and Brooklyn. 

But unlike the other party cities in the USA, New York has a diverse array of options for parties, nightlife, entertainment and fun.

There’s stand-up, live music, Broadway shows, pub crawling tours, late-night TV, Karaoke bars, themed dive bars, bottle service blowouts, decadent cocktail lounges to budget-friendly bars.

Start your night by joining a pub crawl tour at the East Village when the happy hours begin, taking you to famous bars in the neighbourhood, including Doc Holliday’s and The Library Bar.

If you are looking for fine dining, luxurious restaurants or proper clubbing, head to the Meatpacking District. Midtown is also packed with many bars and bouncing nightclubs. 

One of the best places for parties is the rooftop bars, offering gorgeous views of the night city skyline. 

Manhattan midtown is home to many popular rooftop bars overlooking fantastic views. SoHo neighbourhood is best if you love cocktail bars, while Brooklyn is all about beer bars.

It is not just bars and pubs, though, as the boroughs and alleys of the neighbourhoods in the city also boast of trendy indie boutiques, iconic bakeries, night museums and cute coffee shops worth checking out.

Admire Gotham’s iconic landmarks and towering skyscrapers on a guided night walking tour.

Shoppers should check out the fabulous Fifth Avenue, while the Metropolitan Museum is the best for art lovers.

Here are our recommended tours, including late-night tours in NYC to make the most of your time.

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S EVE SPECIAL TOURS IN NEW YORK AT NIGHT

From Manhattan: 4-Hour Dyker Heights Holiday Lights Bus Tour

New York City: Christmas Lights Horse Carriage Ride

From New Jersey: NYC New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise

From Manhattan: Private Brooklyn Christmas Tour by Limousine

NYC: Holiday Yacht Cruise with Jazz, Cocoa & Carols

NYC: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes

From Manhattan: 3.5-Hour Brooklyn Christmas Magic Tour

From Manhattan: 4-Hour Christmas Lights Luxury Bus Tour

OTHER TOP TOURS(THROUGHOUT THE YEAR)

Central Park: Short Loop Horse Carriage Ride

From Westchester: Shared Helicopter Tour over New York City

NYC: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience Ticket

Central Park NYC: Horse and Carriage Ride

New York City: Manhattan Helicopter Tour

NYC: New Year’s Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Harbour Cruise

New York: The New York Pass with 100+ Attractions and Tours

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

What better place than the La-La Land for seemingly never-ending fun-filled nights? 

A city synonymous with dismantling stereotypes, a melting pot of culture based on liberal and laid-back vibes, Los Angeles is one of the best party cities in the US, loved by the free-spirited, adventure-seeking, young and young at heart.

If you have been to this dream city, you know why the music world and celebrities call it their home. 

One of the largest cities in the country, this sprawling metropolis is home to one of the most diverse sets of neighbourhoods in the United States.

Whether you want to visit high-end-packed clubs with the hottest DJs, attend underground techno shows in warehouses, or indulge in midnight street festivals and night raves, you can have it all in this dreamy city.  

Looking beyond the quintessential traits of a large USA party city encompassing wild clubs, expensive drinks, and fancy clothes, you will find diverse activities waiting to be explored. 

LA is home to many fantastic comedy clubs, beautiful late-night restaurants, and hip music bars.

West Hollywood, Downtown LA and Beverly Hills are the best neighbourhoods for top nightlife. It is home to the trendiest rooftop bars, classy cocktail spots, top nightclubs, and luxurious restaurants.

Looking closely at these districts, you might spot a few celebrities in the crowd. The famous Avalon is one of the top spots for celebrity spotting and excellent drinks.

Downtown LA is famous for its top EDM and Latin clubs, including the Exchange LA.

If you want something more laid-back, head to the shores at Santa Monica for beach-side bars or Silver Lake for rooftop restaurants.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

New Orleans is one of the best party cities in the USA, known for its French-influenced culture that goes beyond its European-style architecture.

New Orleans is famous for its wild parties, which give the city a distinct identity drawing thousands of travelers looking to party all night and day.

If you want to witness the city’s maximum wildest levels, head to New Orleans during February or March. In this extravagant carnival, the costumed revellers from around the world flock to the streets for one of the year’s biggest parties.

There are people with masks everywhere, music, colourful floats of all shapes and sizes floating around, and endless forms of merriment and rowdiness typical at this carnival.

Although New Orleans draws millions during Mardi Gras season, this southern Louisiana city east of the Rockies keeps the fun and frolic going.

If you want to experience the best Louisiana nightlife, there is no better city than New Orleans. 

New Orleans has more bars per capita than any other American city. It transforms into a spectacular place with its wild nightlife comprising jazz-soaked streets, bars that are open late, a festival of some sort almost every weekend, and hip-hop havens amidst renaissance-style buildings.

The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans for its indulgent nightlife. The city is home to one of the most famous party streets in the USA -Bourbon Street, located in the French Quarter.

It is where you will find most bars, restaurants and clubs, including beer bars, cocktail bars, strip clubs, sex clubs and underground pinball arcades. Bourbon Street is also home to authentic local bars and unique live music.

If you like Jazz and local bands, head to Frenchmen Street to watch local musicians jam to Jazz, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and Zydeco tunes. The Spotted Cat and The Maison are popular bars for enjoying these genres of music when in New Orleans.

The fun-loving energy and people of the Big Easy will capture your heart, no matter where you go.

From the French Quarter to legendary Pat O’Brien’s, Penthouse Club, and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the nights in New Orleans are always loud and passionate, even on a Monday night.

Start your night in New Orleans with a walking tour through the French Quarter. Along with admiring its colonial heritage, check out the pubs and taste the best on a pub crawl tour, or if you want something spooky, join a ghost tour this quarter.

For more jazz-themed pubs, we recommend you go on a pub crawl tour in Frenchmen Street. The best bars include Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro and the House of Blues. 

For a more classy alternative, sip wine in the Bayou wine garden.

KEY WEST, FLORIDA

How do you like a tropical getaway for a trip packed with fun nightlife? 

Key West in Florida is one of the best parties in the US for a bit of a gorgeous beach holiday and wild nights.

Do not let the size of the island discourage you, as the city is packed with adventurous activities and fantastic nightlife.

Although it draws tourists and beach lovers all year, Key West is one of the most popular winter party places in the USA, drawing hundreds of party lovers from December to April, which are also the best months to be here.

After watching the gorgeous sunset along the shores or at the beautiful Mallory square, head to Duval street, which transforms into a vibrant lane playing the latest hits. 

From classic Irish pubs to Saloon-themed Texas-style bars, you will find plenty of options to enjoy your nights. Do not be surprised if you find people dancing on the street as the hour passes. Take a pub crawl tour or a cocktail tour which will take you to amazing cocktail bars.

If partying in the ocean is more your type, which is what it should be when in Florida, join a party cruise. If you want a full boat to yourself, rent one and throw your private yacht party. 

AUSTIN, TEXAS

When nicknamed the “Live Music Capital of the World,” it is undoubtedly one of the best party cities in the USA. 

The capital of Texas is known for many things, especially live music, but if parties are on your mind, it is a top USA party city for the youth, bachelor or bachelorette parties as this city is all things urban and hip.

Since the city is home to some of the most prominent universities in the country, the youthful crowd make sure that it stays one of the best party vacation destinations in the US. 

You can enjoy dancing away the night or go wilder at the many strip clubs, laugh until your belly hurts or take in the fantastic night views of the brilliantly lit Austin skyline from rooftop bars while sipping your favourite cocktails. 

Austin boasts more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in the nation, with over 250 live music spaces. 

So if music is your thing, Austin will keep you up into the wee hours of the morning at its tons of fancy cocktail bars, rooftop bars with views, country bars and everything in between. 

Head to Sixth Street in Downtown Austin, the ultimate nightlife street. This neighbourhood, known as the entertainment district, is packed with every beat you can imagine, as some of the best DJs in the country light the fire at night, from pop to rock to hip-hop.

Join a pub crawl tour to explore western-themed bars, including cocktail lounges and cowboy bars. Or if you prefer something classy, various nightclubs await you.

Drink at a speakeasy and enjoy some great dancing and partying. Join line dancing or throw back a few beers at a cowboy bar.

Rainey Street is a popular stop worth checking out for quirky restaurants, little pop-up bars, and many excellent rooftop bars housed in ancient heritage buildings. If you want to do it the local’s way, the quieter East Austin is the place to go.

MIAMI, FLORIDA

One of the best party cities in the US that needs no introduction is Miami, known for its stunning coast packed with amazing beaches whose shores turn into a party paradise after sundown.

The renowned shores of “America’s Riviera” is the perfect destination for people looking for sunshine, cocktails on the beach and pool parties.

Between Miami and Miami Beach, you can get your nightlife thrills in many ways with something available to every type of partygoer.

South Miami is the heart of nightlife, with tons of entertainment options. You will see the neighbourhood open until the morning hours no matter the time of the year on its glorious beaches packed with beautiful people revelling in all-night dance parties bumping beats 24/7. 

Eat the best delicacies at the best beach-side barbeques while taking in the glitz and views. Head next to shiny neon dance clubs.

The rich and famous aren’t the only ones who will enjoy their time in South Miami in fancy nightclubs like Story. You can have the best nights of your trip hopping bars on pub crawl tours or enjoy gorgeous views from the rooftop cocktail bars.

Do you know? Miami is the unofficial capital of electronic music and home to legendary EDM venues, including Club Space and LIV, which are the best places to party in Miami.

Downtown Miami offers more local vibes with many cocktail bars in festive markets like Bayside Marketplace, home to unique cocktail bars. You can enjoy live music and yummy food downtown.

You will find many bars and restaurants along Ocean Drive and the art deco district. Ocean Drive is home to some of Miami’s best bars, upscale boutique lounges, and beach clubs, including its renowned fantastic luxury hotels.

If you prefer something less wild, less glamorous and artistic nights, you should check out Wynwood, Miami’s arts district drawing hipsters, home to outdoor and indoor art-themed bars and beautiful street art. It is also famous for many quirky cocktail bars offering fantastic night views.

Lincoln Road is another strip” in Miami Beach that you will love for more laid-back nightlife.

Brickell is where you must go to a party with the younger crowd at the fancy clubs.

There are many other awesome things to do in Miami at night. Head to Haulover Park or Lummus Park, learn a little about architecture on an art deco tour, join a Night Tour with Big Bus Miami or start your night with a Sunset Cruise. No matter where you go, you will love partying in Miami with your friends.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Many bachelors or bachelorette parties book in Nashville for a reason, as only a few other party streets in the USA, can live up to the legacy of the city streets.

Nashville is one of the best party cities in the US, thanks to the city’s love for country music and its fantastic Broadway street. But there are loads of activities, events and experiences Nashville offers, making it one of the most versatile party destinations in the United States.

Do you know? Nashville stood as the highest-ranking city in the south for nightlife. The Music City is one of the best places to stay up, dance and drinks until the very early morning hours, bar hopping for more cocktails, beer, and dances.

A paradise for musicians, Nashville is home to the most famous country artists in the world. You can enjoy all types of live music that fill the Tennessee night sky.

Famous as Honky Tonk Highway, Broadway in Nashville is where you start your part nights after sundown.

From downhome honky tonks to live blue music spaces, you will enjoy music performed by talented musicians cheered by the friendliest locals.

There are plenty of bars on Broadway in the 12South area, which has the city’s best nightclubs, cocktail bars, Jazz and live blues, and some of the country’s best beer.

Go for a pub crawl with craft beers and cocktails, as local experts recommend, especially if you are new to the city.

Downtown Nashville is another spot for excellent food, music, drinks, and dancing. Head to Golf Bars for an exciting golf game along with drinks.

If you are a die-hard fan of country music, you must watch a show at Grand Ole Opry, one of the most famous country music venues in the world in Nashville.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Many Americans feel that you haven’t truly experienced nightlife until you’ve seen the sunset in Boston. We agree that this Massachusetts city is one of the best party destinations in the USA, known for its thumping nightlife.

Boston during daylight attracts hundreds of thousands of history buffs and food enthusiasts, but after sundown is when nightlife wanderers love here.

The Boston nightlife has the perfect mix of everything as the university city draws its youthful crowds to bars, clubs, comedy, theatres, dinner cruises and delicious food. 

Whether it is a game night, a weekend or any day in between, it is common to find the bars and pubs packed at night.

You will love Boston if you are an EDM fan, as many bars host EDM artists for blood-pumping EDM nights at some of the best-loved local bars.

If you’re looking for something funny to spice up your evening, check out the comedy clubs at North End, one of the entertainment centres in the city, also home to swanky nightclubs and gorgeous rooftop bars.

BEST PARTY CITIES IN THE USA  – UNDERRATED

San diego, california.

One of the best party cities in the US, if you are looking to go away from the famous destinations, is San Diego. 

This Californian city is known for its excellent weather throughout the year, but it is also blessed with a magnificent coastline dotted with pretty beaches, making it one of the best USA beach party destinations, especially if you want your bachelor or bachelorette party by the beach shores.

This underrated city offers happening nightlife and entertainment, from live music to dive bars and flamenco dancing.

If you are a foodie, you will love San Diego as a party destination in the US, as it is known for its many excellent restaurants and local eateries serving diverse exquisite cuisines, from Mexican to Italian and Indian.

San Diego is an ideal destination for a party-themed trip with friends. Start your night by watching stunning sunset at one of the many beaches and hopping the beach-side bars.

Head next to the famous Gaslamp Quarter, the heart of the city nightlife, home to hundreds of bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Sip on fancy cocktails at rooftop bars with your friends, admiring stunning views of the impressive San Diego bay. 

Next, you can choose to explore the thriving local craft beer scene, which makes the city famous for its abundance of excellent breweries. 

Or, check out the modern nightclubs drawing eclectic crowds throughout the year. 

Among the trendy nightclubs of San Diego, Onyx Nightclub is the perfect place if you want to do late-night parties as their musical nights go on well past midnight hours.

TAMPA, FLORIDA

Tampa is one of the best party cities in the US in Central Florida if you want to get away from the Miami beach area but still prefer partying with your friends in the sunshine state.

A famous stop for artists and creative souls, Tampa is the city where the excitement skyrockets as the colourful city open to partygoers once the golden colours of the sky start fading.

If you love EDM, Tampa is one of the best US party cities after LA that you will love as it is where the new, famous and aspiring DJs come to entertain the crowds as they dance away the nights.

The best places for nightlife in Tampa are the Riverwalk, Downtown and Ybor City. You have many options to party and explore the nightlife in this city, from house music to fancy nightclubs and luxurious restaurants.

The options are endless, from rooftop bars with wide dance floors to mesmerizing views of the skyline from those smaller, more intimate get-togethers in Ybor, Tampa’s artistic district.

You will love the Riverwalk if you prefer dining or partying outdoors, as many night events like games, live music, and DJ nights are held in its themed bars and pubs.

Ybor City is where you should go for a unique nightlife experience involving glimpses of Cuban culture, where you can taste delicious cuisines at the many fantastic Cuban restaurants, enjoy a cocktail or a martini at chic bars, and hop dive bars.

Tampa is the best place if you love party cruises. Plan a day trip to neighbouring Clearwater Beach or St Pete and end the days by joining party cruises where you can dance, drink, and dine overlooking gorgeous views.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

One of the best party cities in the US that is highly underrated is Seattle, one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

There is more to find in Seattle beyond Starbucks and the rainy days. Seattle can become your favourite US party city if you know where and how to see it.

The Emerald City may not entice you in LA or Vegas style, but over 200 bars, nightclubs, and thousands of restaurants promise you fun-filled nights. 

Plus, thanks to fewer people, you get to party to your heart’s content without having to wait in line for hours to get into venues or get tickets. 

The Seattle nightlife has something to give anyone, whether that includes dancing the night away surrounded by stunning views or trying some finger-licking good bar food, so pick your pleasure.

Head to Capitol Hill for grungy rock bars, artistically themed bars, and excellent night views. Belltown is the place to go for dance clubs.

Your nightlife in Seattle is incomplete without checking out its best microbreweries scattered around downtown and Pioneer Square.

Some popular ones include Pike Brewing Company and Pyramid Ale House next to the Mariners ballpark.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

If you know anything about the Midwest, you know that it’s too cold for outdoor activities most of the year, so it is mostly indoors. But Chicago knows how to party.

Regarding party cities in the US, Chicago is still a pretty underrated destination, known for its deep-dish pizza, an influential art and culture scene, neighbourhood festivals hosted during the summer, beer gardens, patio bars and many pretty beaches.

If you love theatre, live music, delicious, diverse cuisines, stunning city views and beer gardens, you will love your nights in Chicago spent partying.

The fun doesn’t stop at sundown in this metropolis of culture and America’s third-largest city. 

Nightlife begins earlier than you expect with a bang as many rooftop lounges, swanky hotel bars, traditional blues bars, famous jazz clubs, modern up-and-coming hipsters and a famous house music nightclub scene will keep you entertained.

Chicago is heaven for foodies as you can taste diverse delicacies after filling deep-dish pizzas. 

Start your night at River North, the most famous neighbourhood in Chicago for nightlife, especially Hubbard Street.  

You are in for a wild night on this street known for its extraordinary Chicago nightclub scenes, late-night bars, swanky cocktail bars, and world-class dance clubs you can dance in until the early hours. 

Drink like a local in Wrigleyville on pub crawl tours. If you are looking for hipster or cocktail bars, Milwaukee Avenue is an excellent choice.

Do not miss witnessing the spectacular views of this stunning city at night. Head to Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower or the John Hancock Center’s 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck for gorgeous night views.

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

One of the best party cities in the US adored by Rock and Roll fans is Memphis, which draws millions of music fans every year thanks to its musical festivals, concerts, and band performances.

If parties do not feel complete without delicious food, excellent drinks, and happening music that speaks to the soul, the home town of Elvis Presley is where you will have a fantastic party trip and fun.

Summer is the most popular time for traveling to Memphis when most musical nights and performances are held for partying until dawn.

If you are new to the city or have loads of options, overwhelm you, start your party night Downtown, in the heart of Memphis, or best, join a pub crawl tour where expert locals will take you to the best bars and pubs.

If you love spooky, how about a haunted pub crawl? Listen to the stories and legends of ghosts of Memphis as you hop pubs with your friends.

Head next to Beale Street, home to excellent bars, lovely restaurants and high-end clubs. The best part is most popular hangout places are within walking distance, which means easier hopping around and lots of time to explore many tours and activities.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Whether you love exploring swanky nightclubs, appreciate art, or love watching the glamourous night views, one of the best cities to party in the USA is the capital of Georgia, Atlanta.

This southern city, known for its art, culture and music, also hosts over a hundred different types of festivals here, which means nights in Atlanta are anything but quiet or mild.

After sightseeing in the sun, there is nothing better than cooling off by partying in its best districts, where music dominates the scenes, as you will see world-class DJs turning the crowds into party beasts with their hits.

From Latin nights to southern-themed bars and sleek lounges, revel away your nights amidst glitzy neon lights-packed skyscrapers in Atlanta.

TUCSON, ARIZONA

When a city is dominated by a student community, you can expect it to be a great city for nightlife. And it is true in the case of Tucson, one of the best party cities in the US if you are looking to enjoy Arizona.

Home of the University of Arizona, the city is home to many bars, nightclubs, and pubs that get packed with the young crowd as the evening gives away for a bustling night.

Did you know? Tucson also has one of the largest numbers of strip clubs, so you will be surprised at how well the entertainment is in the city.

HOUSTON, TEXAS

Houston may not be Las Vegas or New York, but it is one of the best party cities in the US if you are looking at Texas. If you are looking for EDM night scenes or to shake things up from night to night or love their nights weird.

Houston is all about urban, exotic nightclubs, stunning restaurants, glamorous bars and gorgeous night lights that allure the partygoers that want something not raunchy but keeps them alive all night with unlimited options for fun.

The Houston central business district transforms into a part haven as the neon lights draw crowds heading to its many rooftop bars and fancy nightclubs.

Go to a line dancing saloon if you want to experience the Texan quirky side. For dance clubs and themed cocktail bars, head to midtown. 

To get glimpses of the countryside, check out the whiskey bars, or taste the fresh brews overlooking the glitzy night skies at its beer pubs.

If you want to join locals for a more relaxed evening, head downtown for its plenty of music bars and excellent restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS

Fort Texas may not be one of the places to party hardest in America, but if you are willing to go off the beaten path, it is one of the best party cities in the US for wild nights.

If you like partying in cities with the vibes of a closely knit community and experiencing Cowboy parties, nightlife in Fort Worth will be exciting and intimate. It has become a popular venue for hundreds of bachelor and bachelorette parties around The Stockyards.

From strip clubs to dive bars to fancy rooftop restaurants, you are guaranteed fun in this university city.

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

One of the cities that has been getting on the radar of partygoers in the USA in recent years is Charlotte, one of the biggest cities and the most populous in North Carolina.

Charlotte is one of the best party cities in the US for younger crowds, thanks to the city’s love for all things music. No matter when you plan your trip, you will witness at least a few music festivals.

From comedy nights to disco bars and dance clubs, night comes with loads of fun activities with something for everyone.

Whether you want to party harder by hopping arcade bars, trying brews, or being a foodie looking for the best cuisines, you can pick your pleasures for nights.

It has more strip clubs per a hundred thousand people compared to bigger cities on either side of the country, which not many party people are aware of, surprisingly.

WASHINGTON DC

Although it is one of the biggest cosmopolitan cities in America, Washington DC does not strike as a party destination, but if you are willing to go beyond the skyscrapers, you will see that it is one of the best party cities in the US.

For the best nightlife in Washington, head downtown, where you will be spoilt for choice regarding house music, rock bands, EDM and themed night events.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

Philadelphia in Pennsylvania is one of the best party cities in the US if you want to get away from the bigger cities but still want wild nights.

Music is a prominent part of the entertainment at night in Philadelphia. One of the most exciting cities in the United States, Philadelphia is home to many fantastic rooftop bars, fancy nightclubs, and many dance clubs where you can dance to the latest numbers until the early morning hours.

It is also a favourite city among foodies as the city is known for its local eateries open late at night, perfect stops in between visiting Irish bars or sipping cocktails. 

Whether you want a delicious multiple-course meal at the lavish restaurants, prefer admiring the gorgeous city views from rooftop bars, or go pub crawling or laugh in comedy shows, you have plenty of ways to party in Philadelphia.

East Passyunk, Kensington, Fishtown, and the Old City are the best neighbourhoods for happening nightlife in Philadelphia.

The Library Bar and the Graffiti Bar are known for their lively ambience and best cocktails.

BEST PARTY CITIES IN THE USA – FOR SMALL TOWN LOVERS

Denver, colorado.

One of the best party cities in the US, if you are looking for an underrated destination, is Denver. The Mile High City in Colorado has been gaining. popularity among bachelors and bachelorettes in recent years, thanks to its growing list of many types of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment options, offering something for every type of partygoer.

Start your night at Blake Street, the heart of Denver nightlife, where you will find cocktail bars, beer pubs, fancy nightclubs, high-end restaurants, and breweries.

There are many options when it comes to entertainment as well, from arcade games to tournaments and karaoke nights. To enjoy the fabulous night lights, head to one of many rooftop bars that invite famous DJs and musicians.

If you are looking for something less wild, check out Larimer square, where you can watch comedy shows, enjoy live music or attend the theatre.

HONOLULU, HAWAII

Honolulu on the island of Oahu’s south shore may be a popular romantic getaway drawn to its gorgeous beaches, lovely landscapes, and excellent seafood. Still, it is one of the best party cities in the US if you want to get away from beautiful beaches and fun nightlife.

The capital of Hawaii knows how to party wildly, whether drinking along the shore or dancing away all night in Downtown Honolulu’s hot nightclubs.

Head to the famous Waikiki neighbourhood, the centre for dining, drinking, games, nightlife and shopping.

Head next to Kaka’ako, the city’s newest entertainment district known for and most unique lounges, rooftop restaurants and fancy bars.

The shores of crescent beach turn into a party paradise at night as the clubs, pubs, and bars begin their entertainment, from live music by local artists to dance floors getting packed by travelers.

For excellent food, music and dance, head to Chinatown’s underground venues.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA

One of the best party cities in the US to visit if your idea of parties means hopping bars is Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, known for the most bars per population.

Downtown is where all the action happens after sundown. Start with local bars that come alive with live musical evenings, best enjoyed with cocktails or fresh brews.

If watching games at night sounds like a party to you, head to nightclubs screening the matches that you can watch with their hit music and delicious food and drinks.

The city takes its love for music seriously. Its nightclubs, bars, and pubs invite the best DJs and artists for incredible performances that travelers enjoy with the best wines and tasty cuisines.

For the best restaurants and rooftop bars offering stunning views of the night skyline, check out Bloomfield and North Side.

COLUMBUS, OHIO

If you want a unique city in the US not just offer bars and dancing when it comes to nightlife, Columbus in Ohio is one of the best party cities in the US.

The largest city in the Buckeye state may not appear to offer the wildest nights, but you will surely love the city for its spectacular shows, a night filled with visiting comedy clubs and laughing till it hurts kind of late nights.

Columbus is an excellent choice if you want a good mix of unique things to enjoy each night of your trip – from checking out its unexpected abundance of strip clubs to enjoying the gorgeous views of the city from rooftop bars sipping your favourite cocktails.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

Milwaukee, the city in Wisconsin known for beers, should be on your list of nightlife destinations. Milwaukee is one of the best party cities in the US if you want to go offbeat and prefer less populated destinations.

Although you may not see many bachelor or bachelorette parties happening on every other street in the city, the best bars and the best brews offer you fun nights with your friends.

While Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is considered one of the best small party towns in the USA, you’ll see that the city knows how to party wildly, offering you all the fun and unlimited entertainment through its rooftop bars, comedy clubs, best breweries in the country offering tasting and stunning city views, and music and theatre for artistic souls.

ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY

The east coast may not boast of many cities with excellent nightlife as compared to the west, but there are a few best party cities in the US on the East Coast as well, one among them being Atlantic City.

This city in New Jersey is one of the popular destinations for bachelor parties, with many also planning an add-on trip after days and nights of endless fun in the bigger, neighbouring New York City.

Atlanta City is known for its many big casino clubs, so if you prefer partying, playing casinos or hopping to gambling centres, you will love Atlanta City.

Apart from gaming, Atlanta is home to many disco nights as the parties are not enticing without dances. One of the top places to dance all you want is at Boogie Nights.

If you love beer, head downtown for many breweries, rooftop beer bars, or the classic Irish pub to enjoy the brews and the views.

MESA, ARIZONA

One of the best party cities in the US that is underrated is Mesa, located close to the capital Phoenix.

While Phoenix draws most travelers, Mesa also provides plenty of options if you want to party until the early morning hours.

While it may not be the city you want to go to strip clubs or casinos, there are many things to do in Mesa at night, from comedy shows to rooftop bars and nightclubs.

If you want to enjoy partying in the USA on a budget, Mesa has the perfect nightlife.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

If you are looking for an offbeat destination for partying on a budget, one of the best party cities in the US is Charleston.

You may not find nightlife going all night or until the early morning hours, but it is a favourite bachelor and bachelorette party destination if you want something intimate and bustling, minus the high prices or heavy crowds of the big cities.

Live music, arcade games, rooftop bars, and trendy nightclubs await you after sunset to enjoy the nights.

Head to Market Street and Upper King Street, both the centres for nightlife in Charleston.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA

It may not be your dream bachelor or bachelorette party destination or a city for idling away the nights hopping the casinos, but Indianapolis is one of the best party cities in the US if you want a small-town charm and fewer crowds but wilder nights.

You may find few bars to choose from, but Indianapolis compensates by offering plenty of strip clubs, many fine-dining restaurants and some high-end nightclubs.

PORTLAND, OREGON

For a smaller city, Portland is one of the best party cities in the US, which draws a lot of bachelors thanks to its strip club culture.

Portland is known for its eccentric and wild nights, transforming into a nightlife Mecca for those wanting to hit pubs and dance floors.

If strip clubs or dance floors are not your things, go hopping the famous karaoke bars singing to your heart’s content with friends, which is one of the fun things to do in Portland at night for sure.

Portland is one of the most unique cities with the best nightlife in the US, where themed pubs and parties are common and popular things, and so are tasting tours, be it wine or city brews.

BEST PARTY CITIES IN THE USA MAP

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The 30 US Cities Bursting with a Lively Nightlife Scene

If there’s one thing that’s certain about the American people, it’s that they definitely know how to party! You’ll never be too far away from a lively nightlife scene while you’re in the U.S.. 

You could party it up in almost every big city in the country, but there are a few cities that stand out among the rest with nighttime activities you won’t find anywhere else. 

Put your dancing shoes on and get ready to spend your nights sipping on the finest cocktails and mingling with the lively locals at these 30 cities with the greatest nightlife scenes in the United States! 

Table of Contents

1. New York City

Known as the “city that never sleeps”, it’s no question that New York City has some of the finest nightlife experiences in the country. 

Whether you’re looking to spend the night vibing to some classical jazz or dancing the night away to the latest hits, the city has got you covered. 

Over the years, the city has expanded and evolved to meet the times while also maintaining classic venues that keep all party-goers happy across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. 

Head over to House of Yes for a roller-disco extravaganza, practice your funkiest dance moves at the Outpost , and keep it classy in hopes to run into a famous celebrity at One Oak.  If meeting celebrities is what you’re after, check out the Top 10 Spots In New York To Spot Celebrities .

2. Los Angeles

The leading competitor for nightlife fun, Los Angeles, is overflowing with bars, nightclubs, and music venues that’ll keep the party going until all hours of the night. 

LA is made up of a multitude of neighborhoods, all boasting their own kind of party scene, with attractions so close together that you won’t have to haul a cab to get from one bar to another.  

Stay the night in Downtown Los Angeles at one of the many adorable boutique hotels and spend the night bar hopping from one classic to another. 

Head to Hollywood if you’re looking for some diversity and grab a drink at an affordable dive bar before heading to a high-end hotel for a nightcap. 

Get ready to grab a mic and sing the night away at the large selection of karaoke bars in Koreatown and once you work up an appetite, enjoy a delicious selection of late night food. Be sure to check out the Top 10 Best LA Restaurants to enjoy all of what LA has to offer.

Known as a vacation hotspot for college students, Miami is booming with a young party scene and a selection of nightlife venues that’ll keep you partying all night long. 

The city is known for being flashy, from the neon strobe lights at the nightclubs to the wealthy visitors showing off their expensive cars filling the streets – and it’s also one of the 11 Cities with the Most Beautiful Women !

In a place where the weather is always warm and humid, it’s no surprise that you’ll find a lot of your nightlife experiences around rooftop pools and beaches (perhaps even nude beaches !). 

Grab $1 beers and watch an intense game of jai alai at Calder, play bingo with a drag queen at Gramps , or grab tacos before heading into the hidden speakeasy at Taquerias el Mexicano . 

4. New Orleans

Although the city of New Orleans is known for getting the party started early, (like 10 in the morning early) that doesn’t mean that veteran partygoers won’t keep the party going through the night. 

The cool thing about New Orleans is that much of the excitement happens right on the streets – so feel free to spend the night enjoying the live music on Frenchmen Street . 

Things can get a bit rowdy when people are drinking from day to night, but if you’re looking for something more relaxed, you can enjoy a few drinks while catching a midnight movie at the Prytania Theatre,  the oldest theater in New Orleans.

If you find yourself ready to keep the party going as the sun is getting ready to rise, the city has your back with the iconic Kajun’s Pub . Sing karaoke and drink cheap beer 24 hours a day!

New Orleans is also one of the best places to visit in November , with it’s Caribbean Culture Festival taking place early in the month 

5. Nashville

Known as the music capital of the country, Nashville attracts visitors from near and far for its lively scene with a strong focus on country music – so grab your cowboy boots and get ready to dance! 

Music can be heard throughout the city at any time of day or night, but Nashville really comes alive at night with its abundance of honky tonks.

Enjoy the pleasure of no entrance fee bars with folks clearing the floor for swing dancing, but make sure to tip the band when the hat makes its way over to you. 

Head over to the Station Inn for a chance to get on stage with the band, enjoy all the country classics at Robert’s Western World, or opt for something different at House of Cards where you can enjoy a high-class magic show with a drink in hand. 

Just because Seattle isn’t boasting a scene of late-night ravers and flashing lights doesn’t mean they have nothing going on after dark, especially since it gets darker here sooner than most places. 

In fact, the city of Seattle ranks as one of the best nightlife scenes, not for its late-night attitude – and a simple fact is that you won’t find attractions more unique than the ones you’ll find here. 

A tourist attraction by day, the Space Needle boasts a lively lower level known as the Laser Dome , where you can jam out to live music while enjoying an insane light show. 

There is no shortage of entertainment with bars sporting games like ping pong at SPIN , mini-golf at Flatstick Pub , and vintage video games at West Seattle’s Vidiot. 

There are also an abundance of day time activities to do the next day, even if it rains!

7. Las Vegas

Nicknamed “Sin City”, Las Vegas is an obvious choice for nightlife entertainment of all kinds. People save up years in advance for even just a weekend partying it up in this expensive yet thrilling city. 

Whether you spend your days walking the strip, visiting the Top 10 Best Attractions in Las Vegas , or partaking in a lively pool party, you’ll want to make sure you save enough energy for when the sun sets – because Vegas is bursting at the seams with it’s nightlife. 

As a hotspot for bachelorette/bachelor parties, 21st birthdays, and any other occasion that warrants an excuse to visit the city, it’s no surprise that the selection of bars, clubs, casinos, and music venues can be a bit overwhelming. 

Wherever you decide to go, be it Omnia and its massive chandeliers or Hakkasan and its 3-level clubs, you’ll be immersed in a lively scene hosted by some of the hottest (and highest paid) DJs in the world. 

8. San Francisco

One of California’s largest cities is hidden in the shadows of Los Angeles when it comes to party scenes. San Francisco doesn’t get nearly enough credit – but those who do know about it know that it’s one of the coolest nightlife venues in the country. 

Made up of a variety of unique neighborhoods, there is a nightlife scene for all kinds of partygoers in this lovely city – from classic speakeasies to underground raves. 

One of the oldest and greatest clubs in the city is easily the DNA Lounge , where you can hop amongst its 2 stages, 4 dance floors, 7 bars, and pizza shop – all while being dressed in your favorite costume. 

Looking for something more laid-back? Make your way over to the Monarch, where you’ll be hanging with the locals while sipping prohibition-themed cocktails in its vintage basement. 

Known as the birthplace of disco music with a focus on bass and drums, Chicago is the place to be if you’re looking enjoy a night of dancing to music both old and new. 

Although you won’t be able to party it up in the house and blues clubs that once shaped the city, you’ll have the opportunity to hop across a large selection of clubs, bars, and music venues that are constantly trying to fill its large footprints. 

Check out one of the oldest clubs still running, The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge , and try some of the best cocktail creations in the city while listening to live jazz. 

Enjoy your fair share of underground nightlife scenes like The Underground , known for its celebrity appearances, Spybar, for techno music in an intimate setting, and The Apartment, which makes you feel like you’re partying at a friend’s house. 

Everybody knows about Austin’s iconic Sixth Street and its lively party scene, but there is so much more that one of the Largest Cities In Texas has to offer, from cheap dive bars to classy cocktail bars. 

If you’re looking for a good time, you can’t go wrong with spending the night on Rainey Street , where an entire strip of old homes have been transformed into a line of bars and restaurants perfect for bar hopping. 

For something more local friendly, make your way over to East Austin , where you can enjoy an up and coming neighborhood of social clubs, music venues, and breweries. 

Check out the wine bars on South Congress Avenue , drink and shop at the Domain shopping center, and enjoy some of the tastiest craft beers along South First Street.  

11. San Diego

Known for its abundance of locally brewed craft beers, San Diego is a safe-haven for hipsters – and its many tropical themed bars provide a paradise feeling that is hard to beat. 

Although the city isn’t bustling with cars all hours of the night, that doesn’t mean the nightlife is lacking. Many people make their way to the nearest bars after spending the day taking in the sun on one of the many beaches . 

You’ll definitely get a laid back vibe from most of the beach towns in the area, but one step inside one of the local bars will have you ready to drink the night away with newfound friends: 

• Head to the False Idol to enjoy drinks inside a cave-like setting that screams vacation at every turn.
• The Coin-Op Game Room pairs drinks with your favorite childhood games.
• Slurp on a rosé slushy next to the rooftop pool at The Pendry . 

You’ll find a bouncing night life in San Diego, and you don’t want to miss it!

The city of Boston may be known for its historic significance – but that doesn’t mean that it lacks a party scene when the sun goes down. 

From its highly acclaimed restaurants, rooftop bars, and rapidly expanding nightclubs, there are plenty of places in Boston to bust a move, mingle with the locals, and try unique cocktails. 

If you’re really looking to dance the night away, make your way over to The Grand – which is not only the hottest nightclub in town, but is constantly featuring celebrity performers. 

If you’re looking for something more elegant, head over to The Royal with its massive dance floor and VIP balconies – or stop by The Tunnel to drink expensive champagne in a vibrant setting. 

13. Houston

Another of the largest cities in Texas , Houston is home to one of the most diverse selections of bars, restaurants, and music venues and it is constantly expanding to become even bigger and better. 

With so many beaches , and state parks in the area, there is a pretty good chance that you’ll be dancing the night away and admiring more than just the drinks by day. 

Bring your furry friend and head over to the Axelrad Beer Garden for a night of live music and craft beer in an adorable outdoor setting. 

Cezanne is the place to be for jazz lovers, whereas The Flat is a fan favorite for hip-hop lovers. Numbers is where you’ll find all the disco fans getting their groove on! 

Although this Mile High City is geared more towards outdoor activities, the continued growth of young travelers and residents alike has given Denver a thriving nightlife scene you don’t want to miss out on. 

If you’ve visited Denver in the past, you’d know the city is overflowing with life – and the creative energy can be felt from all corners of its vibrant neighborhood. It should come as no surprise that the bars fit that same quota. 

One of the most loved activities by young locals is spending the weekend bar hopping along Colfax Avenue , where bars and lounges dominate the street. 

Check out a midnight movie at The Esquire, laugh until your stomach hurts at the Bug Theater’s Comedy Club , and finish the night with a gyro at Pete’s Kitchen which is open 24 hours. 

15. Portland

Known to be one of the most beautiful cities in Oregon , you’ll definitely be in for an interesting (and possibly strange) time at just about any of the nighttime establishments in the lively city of Portland. 

Although its nightclubs have seen better days (especially after the tragic fire in a warehouse club in 2016), the bar scene in Portland has become more and more popular. 

If you’re into indie music and laid-back vibes, you’ll most likely find yourself at Rontoms, jamming out with locals of all ages and drinking classic cocktails. 

There’s something for everyone in Portland, like the High Water Mark for lovers of metal, The Lovecraft for the fantasyland enthusiast, and the Multnomah Whiskey Library for guests who prefer to sit back with a fine glass of dark liquor. 

16. Memphis

Home to rock ‘n roll king, Elvis Presley, the roots to a booming nightlife scene was planted early on and have only continued to flourish with an overflowing amount of bars, nightclubs, and music venues. 

Aside from the obvious choice to party the night away, you’ll find your fair share of speakeasies if you know the right people and do your homework before hitting the town. 

One of the best in town is easily The Blind Bear , with its stellar cocktail creations featuring moonshine and late-night bites to keep you going through the night. 

Taste wine from around the world at the Knifebird Wine Bar , listen to the newest up and coming artists at Lafayette’s , or channel your inner child at the Memphis Rec Room where you can spend the night playing classic video games. 

17. Atlanta

The city of Atlanta is all about the latest trends – and because of that, its clubs and bars seem to rotate at a much faster rate than most. 

Aside from the newest establishments that are constantly popping up, the city has a handful of staples that have shaped the city’s nightlife into what it is today and have managed to stand strong in a quickly changing world. 

Spend the night dancing until you can’t any longer, with the rest of the crowd at the popular MJQ Concourse – which has made a name for itself as the hottest club in town. 

Feel like a celebrity at the flashy Gold Room , hide away at El Bar – which boasts a massive dance floor behind its typical Mexican restaurant – or feel the base pounding through your body at The Basement . 

The city of Tampa is known for its many nightclubs, sports bars, and music venues, and its growing development of wine and cocktail bars cater to the even more laid back night scene.  

Regardless of the weekday you choose to visit, you’ll find a place to do your thing – whether you’re looking to spice things up midweek or spend the weekend raging. 

Sit back on a comfy couch or get your heart racing on the dance floor at Club Prana with its 5 levels of fun, including a rooftop bar. 

Enjoy a pirate-themed club scene at Gaspar’s Grotto , see some of the most popular artists at The Ritz Ybor, or drink high class drinks while listening to soul music at CW’s Gin Joint.  

19. Jacksonville

Whether you’d like to spend the night dancing on the beach or within the depths of a historical landmark, Jacksonville has got you covered with a large variety of venues that have visitors coming back for more. 

Just when you think the city can’t get any better with its extensive beaches, boutique shops, and tasty restaurants, the bars and clubs that light up the night can’t help but draw you in. 

“ The Elbow ”, as the locals call it, is known as the intersection where all the hottest bars and music venues meet to create the perfect bar hopping experience. 

If you can’t pull yourself too far from the sandy shore, the Beaches Town Center is revving and ready to go with its line of bars sporting frozen tropical drinks with ocean views. 

20. Oklahoma City

Composed of over 10 different popular nightlife districts that are equally awesome (but completely unique), you’ll be guaranteed a good time regardless of your music preferences. 

You’ll find your greatest blend of tourists and locals in Bricktown – where some of the oldest bars and restaurants in Oklahoma City have laid their roots, creating a lively atmosphere from the moment they opened their doors. 

Listen to the sound of jazz playing as you walk the streets of Deep Deuce . One step on the patio of the Deep Deuce Grill will have you ready to party the night away. 

Check out the large selection of local wine scattered across Automobile Alley , go bowling with a drink in hand at the Dust Bowl in Midtown , and play corn hole as you mingle with the young crowd on Uptown 23rd . 

Sneaking its way up to being one of the best nightlife scenes in the country, you’ll be amazed by the abundance of nighttime activities that fill the streets of Dallas . 

You’ll find something exciting to do around every corner, and the hardest decisions you’ll have to make will be which awesome venue to hit up first. 

A fan favorite is The Foundry, where you can relax on the outdoor patio while contemplating which of the 50 beers you want to try next. Head next door to grab some tasty grub at Chicken Scratch . 

22. Charlotte

Many underestimate the extent of Charlotte’s nightlife scene, but one step on its bustling streets after the sun sets will have visitors doubting everything they knew about the quiet state of North Carolina .

The city has everything you could hope for in a nighttime scene, including craft breweries and their large tap beer selections or speakeasies with their creative cocktail menus. 

Dress up nice and head over for some classy cocktails at The Cotton Room , get your game on at the Abari Game Bar, watch the game while pounding some refreshing beers at Duckworth’s Grill and Taphouse , or enjoy the company of your furry friend at The Dog Bar.  

Combine year round warm weather with a bustling nightlife scene and you’re in for a grand time in the up and coming city of Mesa, Arizona . 

Since the area isn’t known for its rainy days, you’ll notice that a lot of their nightlife is based around outdoor activities – but regardless of where you are, you’re sure to have a drink in hand. 

Take your pick from comedy clubs like the popular Hollywood (which is also known for its classic hits and retro games), or sit back on an outdoor patio like the one you can find at The Monastery.  

Don’t forget about the wonderful mountain views that will follow you everywhere you go!

The more well known nightlife choice in Arizona, Tucson is a playground for college students and older locals alike – so you’re guaranteed to find something to fit your scene. 

Located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains , Tucson is also a tourist town – and the city has continued to grow with lush hotels and restaurants to fit the needs of its growing popularity. 

With it’s up and coming night scene comes an abundance of hotel bars and restaurant cocktail lists that’ll have you begging for more!

Midtown is popular amongst the Latin American community with frequent late night salsa and mariachi bands. The saloons are filled with swing dancers vibing to country music, and a festival is held on the city streets once a month to really get things going. 

25. Columbus

This one might come as a shock to those who see Ohio as a quiet state, but the city of Columbus is booming – and their nightlife scene is about as trendy as it gets. 

Whether you’re looking for a retro vibe, want to play games with a drink in hand, or feel like getting dressed up for a live show while sipping on the finest glass of scotch, Columbus has got you covered. 

Hit up the Route 33 Brew Trail where you can hop from one brewery to another in seconds, head over to the North Market Night Market where you can shop while you drink, or unwind after a stressful day at Columbus Ax Throwing . 

26. Indianapolis

One of the Most Beautiful Small Towns in Indiana , Indianapolis is jam-packed with nightlife venues that make it easy to walk from one hotspot to another. You’ll find your fair share of nightclubs, music venues, cocktail bars, breweries, and dive bars all within walking distance of each other. 

The most popular place to be when the sun sets is BLU, which is a lively lounge that portrays modern style and boasts multiple areas to party the night away. 

The Red Room is a fancy cocktail bar by night and a top notch club with the city’s best DJs, but isn’t the only place with this kind of flow. Check out The Vogue , Metro , and Subterra Lounge for even more of the best Indianapolis has to offer. 

27. Phoenix

With beautiful weather nearly 24 hours a day, all year round, it makes sense that the city of Phoenix has come up with some pretty cool things to do when the sun sets. 

The bar scene is no joke – and you could easily spend your nights dancing until dusk – but there’s so much more than this scenic city has to offer. 

• Go for a glow-stick-filled boat ride along Tempe Town Lake .
• Make it a game to find some of the many hidden bars scattered about.
• Head over to the Desert Botanical Garden to enjoy a live concert among the flowers. 

28. Milwaukee

The nightlife and bar scene in Milwaukee is a force to be reckoned with, and the best way to admire it is by spending the night hopping from one eccentric bar to another. 

You’ll have way too many bars to choose from along your journey – with tiki bars and snazzy fireplaces calling your name – but make sure you fit in time to visit the city’s oldest lounge, Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge . 

You’ll feel right at home at Bittercube Bar, you can try alcoholic milkshakes at At Random, and you can jump between beer and coffee at Vennture Brew Company . 

29. Atlantic City

Nicknamed “America’s Playground”, Atlantic City is filled with casinos, beaches , and boardwalks – and what makes it even better is its thriving nightlife. 

There’s no shortage of nighttime venues in the city. In fact, there may even be too many to choose from when you step outside your hotel room. All you can hear is party music blaring from every direction. 

Test out your funky dance moves at Boogie Nights , get dressed up and ready to spend all your money at HQ2 Nightclub , or hang in the pool after hours with a drink in hand at The Pool After Dark . 

30. Myrtle Beach

Known as a popular tourist destination for folks looking to escape their hectic lives and spend the week beachside with their kids, Myrtle Beach is the place to unwind – and when the sun sets, the adults get to play. 

There’s plenty to do along the waterfront, so you’ll always have a gorgeous view while sipping on your fruity cocktail. Head inland for dinner theaters so that the kids can tag along with you. 

Regardless of how you like to spend your time, you’ll find something to enjoy at Broadway on the Beach , which is overflowing with bars, clubs, shops, and drink stands like Wet Willie’s and its 20+ flavored daiquiris. 

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• Destinations

10 Best Party Cities In the US for A Vibrant Nightlife

Want to party in the USA like never before? Without doubt, America is home to a vivacious and varied nightlife. Right from top-notch pubs to intoxicating bars to jazz clubs and even addictive casinos- the country has something for everyone. Boasting of a pulsating nightlife, right from the East Coast to the West, there are many places in the country that you can explore on your mission to get high on life! Here’s a list of the best party cities in the US where you can unleash the party animal in you! Ready to go wild? 

1. Las Vegas - one of the best party cities in the world!

A gambler’s heaven, Las Vegas is one of the best party cities not only in the USA but also in the entire world! Casinos, clubs, pubs, live entertainment and a lot more- no wonder Las Vegas goes by the nicknames of ‘America’s Playground’, ‘Sin City’, ‘City of Lights’ and ‘Entertainment Capital of the World’! The city is as awe-inspiring as it is overwhelming. Some of the world’s best nightclubs are housed within the glamorous casinos of Vegas thus making it an ideal destination for thumping parties. Feel free to unleash your party monster over here- after all, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!

2. Miami Beach - best party destination in the US!

Plush lounges, fusion restaurants, heady cocktails, classy rooftop bars and elegant nightclubs- that’s what you’ll get in  Miami . One of the best party destinations in the USA, Miami’s South Beach neighbourhood is where you should head over to if you want to party till the wee hours of morning. Miami is also known to throw wicked poolside parties that attract revellers in thousands. The city is a perfect example of contrasts- during the day, it is known to be a family friendly vacation destination. Come night however, and Miami transforms into a beautiful seductress who mesmerises party animals.

Also Read -  14 Budget Friendly Beach Destinations in the USA

3. Los Angeles - the city of angels?!

The City of Angels- Los Angeles definitely adheres to its nickname during the day. But as soon as the sun sets, the devils come out to party like there’s no tomorrow! Boasting of a weather that remains pleasant all year round, Los Angeles knows how to throw a party. If you are lucky (or rich enough!), you might get to rub shoulders with some A-list celebrities! And if you want to experience an energetic beach party, you can always drive down to the nearby Malibu beach and have a time of your life. No surprise here when we say that Los Angeles is probably the best party place in the USA!

Check Out: What to see in 3 days in Las Vegas

4. New York - west side nights:

When you are a city that boasts of the highest number of clubs and bars in the country, you are bound to be one of the best party destinations in the US! New York, with its cool nightlife scene attracts many partygoers and clubbing enthusiasts. Being entrusted with a title of ‘city that never sleeps’, New York takes its nickname pretty seriously and ensures that the revellers get to enjoy its effervescence as much as possible! Besides, if you ever feel like going on a pub crawl, this city is the best place to do so. But who said partying should involve drinks and dance? How about you party at one of the many karaoke lounges that New York houses and sing away to glory?

Check Out: Unique and Hidden Bars in New York City

5. New Orleans - America’s own Rio de Janeiro!

Culturally inclined, New Orleans is known to host many events and festivals, most famous of these being the Mardi Gras. When the entire city comes together to revel in one giant street party, it is bound to feature in the list of top 10 party cities in the world! Most of the clubs in New Orleans are located on Bourbon Street and you should definitely explore it. A melting pot of cultures and traditions, the city also has a neat Jazz scene and you can visit one of the many jazz clubs that the city has, on your visit.

6. Honolulu - Hawaiian party

Surprised to see Honolulu on this list of best party cities in the USA? While Hawaii is known for being a popular honeymoon destination as well as a hub for water sports, its capital city also boasts of a bustling nightlife . From private beach parties to lavish clubbing in the Downtown region, the city surprises party lovers with its many lively options. Honolulu also has a hot underground partying scene which is generally restricted to ‘invitation only’ guests.

7. Atlantic City - popular party destination in the USA

Being home to a few grand casinos and a lovely shoreline, Atlantic City attracts and welcomes many types of travellers- from family vacationers to party mongers, from honeymooners to solo explorers. Less wild as compared to the other party destinations, this city does have a lively nightlife nonetheless. Try your luck at the casino tables or sip on a classy cocktail as you witness a magnificent view of the ocean guzzling down the sun; if you want to have a classy and memorable party, Atlantic City is the place to be.

8. Chicago - party in the Windy City

Famous for its variety of drinks and concoctions,  Chicago  is another city which makes it to the list of top party destinations in the USA. During the day, the city looks like a typical commercial hub, with people in suits hurrying through the crowds towards their offices. It is only after the sun sets that the city grins sheepishly, pops open a bottle of champagne and brings out its party hat! Need more convincing as to why you should visit Chicago? We’ll leave it up to Mark Twain. "It is hopeless for the occasional visitor to try to keep up with Chicago. She outgrows his prophecies faster than he can make them." His words, not ours!

9. Key West - offbeat party destination in the US

Key West is definitely not famous for its nightlife and that’s just what adds to its understated charm. An offbeat party destination, this city in Florida is perfect for people who want to just chill and have a party that consists of classy drinks, great food, interesting conversations and intimate get-together.

10. Washington D.C. - the party ‘capital’!

We have definitely made a mistake, is that what you are wondering? How can a place where politicians live be a good party destination, you ask? Well, don’t forget that the city is also an educational hub; a place where many universities exist. And where do you think the youth party?! Well, of course Washington D.C. does not boast of over the top clubs and pubs, but it does have an energetic nightlife and you should definitely explore it if you happen to be visiting the city. The places and neighbourhoods in Washington that have an active nightlife scene include Georgetown, Dupont Circle and U Street.

• Miami Beach
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Atlantic City
• Washington DC

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Best party cities in Europe

*Note: Some images are for representative purposes only.

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RANKED: Top 10 Party Cities in America

Vacationing in a city known for its party scene can be an incredibly enjoyable experience. With a vibrant nightlife, energetic atmosphere, and endless entertainment options, party cities offer a unique vacation experience for vacationers looking to add a little excitement to their itineraries. 

A recent study conducted by BonusFinder.com has revealed the top party cities in the country. The research considers several factors, such as the number of bars, hotels, music events, nightclubs, casinos, and late-night food venues in each city, compared to the population size and time of last orders. By analyzing this data, BonusFinder.com has compiled a list of the top ten party cities for those who love to let loose and have a good time. 

“The study’s top 10 has a real mix of established locations which are known for going wild and some places which are a little more off the beaten track but no matter what you’re looking for, they all have plenty of options to choose from,” says Fintan Costello, Managing Director of BonusFinder.com

10 – Reno, Nevada

Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” Reno, NV, offers a lively nightlife with casinos, nightclubs, bars, and music venues open late into the night. You can enjoy everything from top-notch concerts and shows to an endless selection of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. 

The downtown area, known as the Riverwalk District, is a popular spot for nightlife, with bars and clubs lining the streets. During the summer months, Reno hosts a number of outdoor festivals and concerts , including the popular Artown festival , which offers a mix of music and art events. 

9 – Key West, Florida

Key West, FL’s nightlife centers around Duval Street, a famous stretch of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants open until the early morning. The street has live music venues, dance clubs, and outdoor bars, making it a popular spot for bar hopping and partying. The city also hosts fun festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Fantasy Fest , known for its colorful costumes and parties.

8 – Jersey City, New Jersey

The Jersey City, NJ, downtown area features bars and nightclubs, many offering live music and entertainment. Grove Street is a popular spot for nightlife, with bars and restaurants offering a mix of local and international options. Vacationers can also enjoy rooftop bars with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The city hosts events throughout the year , such as the annual All About Downtown Street Fair , which offers food and drink vendors, live music, and a beer garden. The city’s proximity to New York City also provides access to nightlife options, from Broadway shows to nightclubs. 

7 – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge, LA, is known for its lively music scene, with a variety of blues, jazz, and rock venues showcasing local talent. Vacationers can enjoy live music at a number of bars and nightclubs throughout the city, such as the Varsity Theatre , which offers a mix of live music and entertainment. The downtown area is also home to bars and restaurants, and during the summer, vacationers can enjoy lots of outdoor festivals and events .

6 – Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, NV , is known for its casinos, hotels, nightclubs, and bars, many open 24 hours a day. The Las Vegas Strip is a popular destination for party-goers, with high-end nightclubs and celebrity DJ performances. Vacationers can also enjoy live entertainment, including shows by world-famous musicians, magicians, and comedians. The city also hosts events throughout the year, such as the Electric Daisy Carnival , one of the world’s largest electronic dance music festivals. 

5 – Miami, Florida

Miami, FL , offers a vibrant and eclectic party scene that draws vacationers from around the world. The city is known for its beaches, which provide the backdrop for many daytime parties and events. Vacationers can enjoy live music, celebrity DJ performances, and dance clubs that cater to a range of music tastes, from Latin beats to EDM. 

Maimi also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Miami Music Week and Ultra Music Festival . Additionally, you can explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with unique atmosphere and entertainment options, from Little Havana to Wynwood . 

4 – Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota, FL, is a vibrant Gulf Coast city offering a more laid-back party scene than some of its more famous neighbors like Miami. The city is known for its great beaches, allowing vacationers to enjoy daytime parties on the sand with beachfront bars and restaurants. Downtown Sarasota is also home to a number of bars and nightclubs, many of which have live music. Sarasota hosts a range of festivals and events , including the Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival and the Sarasota Film Festival .

3 – Hoboken, New Jersey

Hoboken, NJ, offers a lively party scene with a mix of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. The city is known for its bar scene, mainly along Washington Street, which features everything from sports bars to speakeasies. Hoboken is also home to a number of nightclubs that feature top DJs and offer a variety of music, from hip-hop to EDM. Additionally, the city provides a range of culinary experiences . Vacationers can enjoy outdoor events, such as the Hoboken Arts & Music Festival, which features live music and street performers during the summer. 

2 – Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City, NJ , is a well-known party destination on the East Coast. The city is famous for its casinos, live entertainment, and bars and nightclubs. Vacationers can enjoy a variety of music performances, from top DJs to live bands, at venues like the Borgata Event Center and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The city also hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival .

1 – Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach, FL, is known for its iconic beaches, with bars and restaurants offering drinks, food, and live music. South Beach is a popular destination for nightlife, with bars, nightclubs, and restaurants lining Ocean Drive. Vacationers can enjoy a variety of music styles, from electronic dance music to hip-hop, at venues like LIV and STORY . One of the most popular events is Miami Swim Week , which takes place in July and features runway shows, parties, and events showcasing the latest swimwear fashion.

Top Ten Party Cities in America

Vacationing in a party city can be an exciting and memorable experience for travelers seeking a little adventure and excitement. Whether it’s the nightlife, music festivals, or culinary offerings, these destinations offer a unique vacation experience.

This article RANKED: Top 10 Party Cities in America originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Study by BonusFinder.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

The Best Party Cities In The U.S. To Enjoy This Summer

A recent analysis of the top U.S. party cities shows the best domestic destinations to enjoy your next night on the town. Here are the best party cities in the U.S.

Brunno Braga • Apr 19, 2023

With so many options to party in the U.S., which cities stand out as the best for an unforgettable night out?

Bonus Finder recently analyzed the population of the top U.S. party cities, ranking them according to several criteria to help you decide where to enjoy your next night on the town.

Most partygoers believe that major cities are where all the action is. The analysis of 101 U.S. locations across 11 metrics, including the availability of bars and casinos as well as the nightly cost of a hotel room, shows that this is not always the case.

Since there are as many different ways to party as there are people who like to do it, the study includes a wide range of cities to ensure that everyone has a good time. 

Top party towns include several in Florida and a few in New Jersey, both of which are known for their lively nightlife.

Here are the top 5 party cities in the U.S. for a guaranteed great nightlife experience.

Miami Beach, Florida – Rated: 10/10

With its golden sand, blue oceans, and nonstop party scene, Miami Beach is the perfect vacation spot. South Beach, a Florida island connected to Miami by bridges, is a top nightlife destination.

Miami Beach gets a perfect 10 for its many music festivals and accommodations. The average drink cost here ($5) is low compared to other U.S. nightlife destinations.

The entertainment of Miami Beach’s neon-lit Art Deco District and oceanfront clubs will have you partying well into the night.

Atlantic City, New Jersey – Rated: 9.4/10

This seaside resort city is known as Mini-Vegas or America’s Playground for its bustling casinos and world-famous Boardwalk. Despite its popularity, city hotel rates average $116 per night.

The best part of this city is there’s no such thing as last call at the bar, so the party can last as long as you do.

Summer vacationers love the city’s beaches. Another popular, go-to place is Harrah’s Pool After Dark. The 18-thousand-gallon pool is surrounded by tropical plants in a multi-story club with top entertainment every weekend.

Hoboken, New Jersey – Rated: 9.3/10

Hoboken has the most bars, nightclubs, and late-night food for a city, given its modest population of 58,000. Hoboken is a short drive to New York City, but hotel and alcohol prices are lower than in New York and other parts of New Jersey.

Hoboken’s waterfront views of New York City are among the best being just across the Hudson River from Manhattan. Give Hoboken a consideration when you want a more budget-friendly tri-state party experience.

Sarasota, Florida – Rated: 8.5/10

Sarasota has plenty to do until dawn, even though clubbing isn’t as wild as in South Beach. If you like the arts, modern cuisine, rooftop pubs, and sunshine, visit Sarasota.

Sarasota has the lowest half-liter domestic beer price in Florida at $4.01. Sarasota also has 45 strip clubs — one for every 1,216 residents — and scores a perfect 10 for adult entertainment.

Miami, Florida – Rated: 8.3/10

Mainland Miami , across Biscayne Bay from Miami Beach, ranks fifth on the list. The city hosts over a thousand music events every weekend and night owls love the Downtown Entertainment District’s 24-hour clubs.

Other notable cities rounding out the top 10 include Las Vegas, Baton Rouge, Jersey City, Key West, and Reno. Go-to party cities New Orleans (#11) and Atlanta (#20) also hold their place near the top of the list.

RELATED: Here Are The Best Party Cities Around The World

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Best Party Cities in the US: Uncover the Ultimate Nightlife Experiences!

Miami’s Party Havens: Beach Clubs and Trendy Bars

Experience the vibrant party scene of Miami, where the fun never stops. Explore the iconic South Beach, home to trendy beach clubs and glamorous bars. Dance the night away to the pulsating beats of world-class DJs, or sip on delicious cocktails while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views. Miami’s electric atmosphere and diverse nightlife options are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Los Angeles: Iconic Nightclubs and Glamorous Venues

Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles’ nightlife. Rub shoulders with celebrities at iconic nightclubs and soak in the luxurious ambiance of glamorous venues. From exclusive rooftop bars in Hollywood to underground speakeasies in downtown LA, the city offers a variety of party experiences for every taste.

San Diego’s Lively Neighbourhoods for Nightlife

Discover the lively neighbourhoods of San Diego, where the vibrant nightlife awaits. Explore the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its thriving bar and restaurant scene. Experience the energetic atmosphere of Pacific Beach, where beachside bars and clubs come alive. With its diverse range of venues, San Diego offers a dynamic and unforgettable night out.

San Francisco’s Chic Cocktail Lounges and Underground Clubs

Unwind in San Francisco’s sophisticated cocktail lounges and embrace the city’s underground club scene. From trendy speakeasies tucked away in hidden alleys to chic rooftop bars boasting panoramic views, San Francisco offers a mix of high-end and alternative party venues. Allow yourself to be captivated by the city’s artistic spirit as you explore its diverse nightlife offerings.

Atlantic City’s Iconic Casinos and Nighttime Shows

Step into the exhilarating world of Atlantic City, known for its iconic casinos and vibrant entertainment. Try your luck at the slot machines or indulge in a thrilling round of poker. Don’t miss the captivating nighttime shows that grace the stages of Atlantic City, offering a unique blend of music, comedy, and theatrical performances.

Chicago’s Electric Music Scene and Late-Night Hangouts

Experience the electric music scene in Chicago, where the beats of blues, jazz, and house music fill the air. Explore the city’s diverse array of music venues, from intimate jazz clubs to high-energy dance clubs. As the night unfolds, discover the city’s late-night hangouts, where you can mingle with locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

Austin’s Legendary Live Music Venues

Embark on a musical journey in Austin, the Live Music Capital of the US. Discover legendary venues such as the historic Continental Club and the iconic Antone’s, which have shaped the city’s reputation for live music. From honky-tonk bars on Sixth Street to intimate concert halls, Austin offers an unrivalled music scene that caters to every genre and taste.

Explore the best party venues in these incredible cities to create unforgettable memories and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of the US.

Nightlife Experiences and Activities in Each City

Exploring the cultural side of new orleans’ nightlife.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans and discover its rich cultural offerings. Experience the soul-stirring rhythms of jazz at iconic venues like Preservation Hall or explore the lively Frenchmen Street, known for its vibrant music scene. Indulge in the local cuisine at renowned restaurants, and don’t miss the chance to join a spirited second line parade during your visit.

Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems in New York City

Beyond its legendary party scene, New York City offers a plethora of attractions and hidden gems to explore. Take a stroll through Central Park or visit iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty. Dive into the local art scene by exploring world-class museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art or catch a Broadway show for an unforgettable evening packed with entertainment.

Beyond Casinos: Unique Experiences in Las Vegas

While famous for its casinos, Las Vegas has much more to offer. Embark on a scenic helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon or immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Fremont Street Experience. Explore the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area or indulge in retail therapy at luxury shopping destinations like The Forum Shops at Caesars. Las Vegas truly caters to every taste.

Miami’s Fusion of Latin Flair and Party Scene

Experience the energetic fusion of Latin flair and party scene in Miami. Dance the night away at world-famous nightclubs in South Beach and indulge in delicious Latin cuisine at the vibrant Calle Ocho. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive or soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches. Miami’s vibrant nightlife offers an unforgettable blend of culture, music, and non-stop entertainment.

Los Angeles: Where Entertainment Meets the Night

In the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles, the nightlife seamlessly blends with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Explore the vibrant nightlife in trendy neighbourhoods like West Hollywood and Downtown LA. Catch a live comedy show at the Laugh Factory or dance the night away at exclusive nightclubs. Don’t forget to savour the delectable cuisine at celebrity-owned restaurants scattered throughout the city.

Discovering San Diego’s Adventure-Fuelled Nightlife

San Diego offers a unique blend of adventure and nightlife. Experience the electric atmosphere of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, known for its lively bars and restaurants. Enjoy sunset views at rooftop lounges or embark on a harbour cruise under the starry sky. For an adrenaline rush, try nighttime activities like stand-up paddleboarding or go on a thrilling pub crawl to explore the city’s vibrant beer scene.

San Francisco: A Nighttime Journey Through Art and Music

San Francisco’s nightlife scene is a vibrant tapestry of art, music, and creativity. Explore the city’s diverse array of bars and clubs, from trendy cocktail lounges to underground venues showcasing local talent. Immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of the Mission District or experience the lively energy of North Beach, known for its jazz clubs and live music venues.

Atlantic City: More Than Just Gambling

Beyond its reputation as a gambling destination, Atlantic City offers a diverse range of nightlife experiences. Enjoy thrilling live performances at entertainment venues like the Boardwalk Hall or experience the vibrant nightlife at the renowned Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Take a moonlit stroll along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk and savour mouthwatering cuisine at acclaimed restaurants.  

Chicago by Night: From Blues to Brews

Chicago’s nightlife is a testament to its rich musical heritage. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of blues at iconic venues like Kingston Mines or explore the vibrant jazz scene. Indulge in the city’s thriving craft beer culture by visiting breweries and beer gardens. Don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerising skyline views from rooftop bars while enjoying the city’s distinct charm after dark.

Austin’s Festivals, Pub Crawls, and Live Music Scene

Known as the Live Music Capital of the US, Austin offers a captivating nightlife scene steeped in music and entertainment. Experience the city’s vibrant music festivals, such as South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits (ACL). Join a spirited pub crawl along the iconic 6th Street, lined with bars and live music venues. Indulge in the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the authentic Texan atmosphere.

Explore the diverse range of nightlife experiences and activities in each of these cities, ensuring unforgettable nights filled with entertainment, culture, and excitement. Whether you’re seeking live music, art, delicious cuisine, or simply a night of revelry, these cities have something to offer every nocturnal adventurer.

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• Here Are The Top Party Cities In America To Visit

• New York is commonly referred to as the Big Apple.
• Las Vegas in commonly known as Sin City.
• Manhattan is surrounded by water and is considered an island.

When thinking of a travel destination on your bucket list, there are several things to consider. If a city in the US is where you are headed and want a ton of options for fun and nightlife, there are so many to choose from. Whether it's a couples' trip, a girls' weekend or a bachelor getaway, check out these blow-your-socks-off choices that have been selected just for you. If it becomes too difficult to make a choice, then one by one, visit them all!

10. The Perfect Combination of Warm Weather and Available Activities...San Diego, CA

San Diego is the most southern city in California bordering Tijuana, Mexico. It rarely rains making it the ideal setting to rooftop bars, outdoor cafes, and restaurants. The downtown core is where you want to head if you want to have a drink, enjoy some live bands, and dance the night away in a trendy nightclub. If enjoying a "chill vibe" is more your speed, there are many beautiful seaside restaurants and bars that are casual yet elegant where you can enjoy a great meal or a tropical cocktail with your friends. Tons of sights to see and lots to do during the day. San Diego is definitely a great spot for your party getaway.

9. Feeling a Little Bit Country?

Nashville, Tennesee is definitely for you! Although you can enjoy all sorts of musical delights at the many charismatic bars and clubs on Broadway, country music is definitely king in this town. Live music, karaoke and dance party after dance party can be found at every turn. Whatever you are in the mood for, you will find it in this iconic city. The casual and fun feel of this musical place will make for so many memorable stories to share with your friend and family when you head home.

8. The Windy City

Chicago is not only famous for its deep-dish pizza , but for its incredible nightlife. Like many big cities, certain neighborhoods allow you to dance and party till dawn and Chicago definitely has its share of options. Wrigleyville, Boystown and Wicker Park, just to name a few. From fine dining to a casual affair, the restaurants are definitely not lacking all different cuisines. The options are endless! Shop all day and party all night. Chicago offers something for everyone.

7. Mardi Gras in New Orleans

This city is a phenomenal choice for your party weekend with the gang.  Enjoy the European feel and unique architecture, the warmth of the locals and the countless street parties happening all year 'round. If jazz and blues are your jam, this is definitely the place to be. You cannot walk 200 feet without feeling the energy of this electric city. The music, incredible cuisine, and the charm of this vibrant city will become a part of you and will change you forever.

6. LA LA Land

You definitely have not truly partied until you've partied in Los Angeles. Its locals are chic, the bars are a-plenty and you may even catch a glimpse of a star or two while walking down Rodeo Drive. Glam it up in a fancy nightclub or put on your flip flops and head to a sports bar along the beach in Santa Monica . You can't go wrong with any choices you make in this incredible, unique and absolutely wild and wonderful city.

5. The Home of Duval Street

Key West is an awesome combination of beach life and party city. Laze around all day and work on your tan while you gear up for an insane night on the town on Duval Street . There you will find countless bars featuring live performances that will simply blow you away. Drinking and partying is a way of life in Key West; the perfect choice for your party weekend, or a week, if you dare.

4. You Will Definitely Be Sleepless...

In Seattle. The open, free-thinking vibe in this gorgeous city makes for a really great time. The charisma, the trend-setting night clubs, and venues will absolutely blow your mind. There is something for everyone in this groovy town. All different genres of music are represented by countless nightclubs and bars. You will never go to the same place twice and every night is Friday night in this must-visit city.

3. The Big Apple

By some, New York City is described as the coolest, most unique place on earth! The neighborhoods, the people, the food, the entertainement...there are thousands upon thousands of options to choose from. Watch a sporting event, a concert, a play and then head in absolutely any direction to have an incredible meal, a drink or two or three and just walk the streets, from block to block. Your head will spin from all the great options you have at your fingertips. New Yorkers have spirit, they have an indescribable charisma that is unique to them. People watch, glam it up and party, whatever you decide is your thing, you will have the best time in the city that never sleeps! 

2. The Jewel of the Sunshine State...

If you haven't figured it out yet, the city being described here is Miami! This beautiful sunny city is known for its vibrant pulse and its super chic vibe. There is always something brewing in Miami Beach, all day and definitely all night. Make sure you pack your finest clubwear when headed to this crazy city. Its renowned for its nightclubs and bars and its reputation for partying is known all over the world. Make sure you bring your credit card and be prepared to swipe it often as you head bar to bar, club to club and remember...dress to kill because everyone is watching!

1. Sin City

No surprise that Las Vegas is ranked THE number one party city in the US and arguably, the world! It's vast, it's unique, it's electric and it's the place to be if your plan is to party. Start by trying your luck at the casino, rent a cabana for the day and practice your day drinking. As the sun sets, after your afternoon nap (you will definitely need it to keep going), it's time to head to dinner (sky's the limit of choices), a show and then off you go to the clubs. As you head back to your hotel, a pit stop at the many buffets is advisable to have breakfast before catching a few hours of sleep and doing it all over again the following day. Vegas is a definite must to experience at least once in your lifetime.

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USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US

From snowcapped mountains to tropical beaches, from some of the world’s most iconic cities to some of its most incredible deserts, from the east coast to the west, one thing is incredibly certain: there is absolutely no shortage of awe-inspiring, utterly diverse, and incredibly beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Our home country boasts one of the most incredible national park systems on the planet, along with a huge variety of cities, small towns, and other gorgeous places that ensure that a lifetime would not be long enough to see all of the best travel destinations in the USA.

… But that won’t stop us from trying to enjoy as many of the most amazing vacations in the United States as we can.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to put together this giant USA bucket list, and definitely added a few new spots to our personal list of places to see in the US in the process!

From coast to coast, city to countryside, here are the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

National parks + other beautiful places for a us vacation, beaches + islands for your usa bucket list, other beautiful places in the usa to visit.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

New York is one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the United States and even the world.

It truly is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives even if it’s just for a quick weekend in NYC !

The tall buildings are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring, it’s home to some of the most exquisite museums and galleries in the world, and New York City is brimming with so much to explore and see.

Plus, NYC is a foodie’s heaven with cuisines from all over the world.

… And, these are only a few of the many reasons to visit this magnificent city.

Some bucket-list-worthy things to do in New York City are to watch a play on Broadway, see the Statue of Liberty, hang out in Time Square, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and take a stroll around Central Park.

A few museums to visit are the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History.

Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 5th Avenue, Empire State Building, and Chelsea Market are must-sees as well.

Whatever you decide to do in New York City , you’re in for a real treat!

This city will leave you feeling inspired and you’ll want to book another trip to come back!

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Vibrant and colorful Miami is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the US.

The downtown area merges into wonderfully diverse neighborhoods from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

However, most visitors to the vibrant yet laid-back city head to its beaches located on a long stretch of a barrier island.

South Beach especially is where the glamor’s at, topped by stylish Ocean Drive, which is lined with elegant Art Deco houses including Versace’s mansion, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs… the scene is pretty lively there.

The beach itself features uniquely colored watchtowers spread around nice light sand. The waves are mostly mild. Pelicans like it here too and often float on the water near people.

Watching a sunrise on the beach belongs to one of the best experiences one can have in the area.

Miami City and its beaches can easily be visited  even without a car .

The public transport network and the ample ride/bike-sharing services make it an easy destination for any type of traveler.

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list.

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego , a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

In Downtown San Diego, there is something for everyone: from eating delicious Italian fare in Little Italy to visiting the Midway Museum to strolling through Seaport Village, and having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.  

And then, there are the beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and the beaches in La Jolla.

You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach.  

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for. 

Austin, Texas

The Live Music Capital of the World and capital of the state of Texas is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and offers a fantastic combination of excellent nightlife, plenty of outdoor activities and day trip opportunities, and truly phenomenal food.

Don’t leave without having at least one giant meal each worth of TexMex and barbecue!

While in Austin, be sure to visit trendy South Congress Avenue, watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge (if you’re visiting at the right time of year, that is), see a show, and go for a hike (or if it’s too hot, hit the lake!).

Want to get out of town?

Austin is within an easy day trip of natural swimming holes, Texas’ wine country, and adorable small towns.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Good food, good music, and good times: of all the best places to visit in the USA, NOLA definitely ranks toward the top of the list for places to go to simply have an amazing time.

There’s far more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street, and beignets, though.

With a dark and complex history heavily impacted by slavery and a constantly evolving modern culture, New Orleans deserves more than just partying during your visit–though there’s plenty of time for that, too.

While in New Orleans, be sure to listen to some jazz, learn a bit about the city’s history, visit the famous Jackson Square, head to the Garden District, check out the beautiful oak trees in City Park, and–this is very important–eat your heart out.

NOLA is indisputably home to some of the best food in the country–so good, in fact, that the food alone would be a good enough reason to add New Orleans to your USA bucket list.

For those interested in New Orleans’ spooky legends, a ghost tour through the French Quarter at night is also worth adding to your to-do list!

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

One of the best travel destinations in the United States is the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

With everything from museums to monuments to the White House and Capitol Building, DC has something for everyone .

In addition, DC’s public transportation and numerous free attractions make it a surprising destination for the budget-friendly traveler.

Kid-friendly options include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Art or the Hirshhorn Museum for modern and contemporary art.

History buffs should check out the Library of Congress and the National Archives Museum.

Besides museums, the National Mall and Tidal Basin are must-visit locations to see the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others.

The best times to visit DC include early summer before it gets too hot or in the fall once summer break is over.

Although extremely crowded due to the Cherry Blossoms, springtime is also a gorgeous time to visit.

No matter what time of year, Washington, DC is one of the best destinations to visit in the US.

San Francisco, California

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of bucket lists for the United States.

And, with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco!

Visiting the Muir Woods is an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia has been one of the coolest US cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

Start–but don’t finish–exploring Philadelphia’s food scene at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps.

And, if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself during your classic American vacation in Philadelphia!

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, and also one of the most ethnically diverse.

Its skyline reflecting off the waters of Lake Michigan is a sight to behold.

No matter what your interests are, whether it’s music, shopping, culture, art, or dining, you could spend months exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

On a shorter USA vacation, though, you can still see quite a few of the best sights in Chicago!

The city’s top museums include the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Don’t forget to check out the many outdoor sculptures and other public works of art around the Loop, either.

A walk along the Magnificent Mile will take you past upscale department stores and through Millennium Park, home of the famous sculpture known as The Bean.

A visit to Bronzeville, also known as “the Black Metropolis”, is a must to learn about the city’s rich African-American history.

Architecture buffs will be interested to know that this is where Frank Lloyd Wright established the Prairie School architectural style. You can find some of his earliest buildings here in Chicago.

You’ll work up an appetite walking the streets of this massive city. This is a good thing, because the restaurant scene here is amazing!

You can find pretty much any cuisine you could imagine, from stylish Japanese to homestyle soul food, and there are even lots of vegetarian and  vegan restaurants in Chicago .

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

Houston, Texas is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States, and while an unexpected vacation option, certainly one that will impress.

After all, it is the 4th largest city in the USA and is often ranked as the most diverse city in the country!

Because of this size, you can expect there to be all kinds of things for you to see and do here in this city.

One of the most iconic places you must visit in the city is Space Center Houston.

There you can learn about NASA and space travel as well as take a tour around the famous mission control center. If you love space, then this place is for you.

Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which is the biggest rodeo of its kind in the country.

There, you’ll be able to eat some delicious rodeo foods, pet some livestock, learn about animals, play at the amusement park, and even watch a concert by famous celebrities.

But aside from the attractions, Houston is known for its food. Since it is the most diverse city in the country, you can find just about everything available here in this city.

For instance, you can find Tex-Mex, Chinese, Ethiopian, Greek, and many other ethnic cuisines available all around the area.

So if you love food and all things fun, then Houston is definitely the place for you.

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in the USA, you can’t get much cooler than Las Vegas .

This well-known city has been depicted in numerous movies such as The Hangover and Ocean’s Thirteen as party central.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it in Vegas.

Long known as both the wedding capital for a quick place to get married, or the perfect spot to hold a bachelor or bachelorette party, either way, it’s the spot to bring your friends, let loose, and have fun!

Gambling has been a big draw to Las Vegas since the early 1930s, and there is no shortage of showy and extravagant casinos to choose from.

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

From world-class musicians to top-notch magical acts, to dependable artists like Wayne Newton who have had a residency here for years. 

During the day, you can grab a fancy drink and chill by the pool. Or hit up one of the pool parties and listen to the headlining DJ.

Either way, be sure to bring lots of money for the high-end shops, ever-flowing drinks, and dazzling casinos looking to draw you in. 

Savannah, Georgia

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, spending a few days in Savannah is bound to be a delight.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour, enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

While there are dozens of incredible  restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick  day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, and while you certainly won’t want to swim in the summer, strolling along the sand and climbing the lighthouse are a treat.

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking for the coolest place to visit in the United States?

Visit Los Angeles; a unique combination of the entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.

It is certainly not the cheapest place in California , but for the right travelers, LA is definitely worth the price tag.

Los Angeles is a large city full of tourist attractions that won’t let you stay idle.

If you are a beach lover, LA won’t disappoint you with its stunning beaches that include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, and so on.

There are several fantastic museums in LA. LACMA is the most popular one for its diverse art collections and special exhibits.

Some other renowned museums are the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and Museum of Broken Relationships.

While visiting LA, you will notice entertainment at every corner of the city. You can see a concert or enjoy a ride at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

If you rent a car in Los Angeles, go for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu.

Los Angeles has some of the best restaurants in the US.

Once you are done with LA sightseeing, have lunch at any of these food spots – Diakokuya for ramen, Langer’s for a pastrami sandwich, Guisados for tacos, or pizza at Mozza.

Seattle, Washington

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the best USA travel destinations.

When visiting Seattle, be sure to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside?

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south.

Fantastic Lowcountry food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, and lots of history to uncover are wonderful to appreciate in both Charleston and Savannah –but Charleston absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

On your Charleston vacation, be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Garden, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

If you’d like to do some shopping while in Charleston, King Street is the place to go.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach and/or Sullivan’s Island!

Orlando, Florida

As the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA for both domestic and international visitors, mostly on behalf of one iconic mouse.

As home to Walt Disney World , Orlando is a must-see USA bucket list item for many families across the world, and with four amazing Disney parks packed with rides, experiences, and intense amounts of nostalgia, it’s no wonder why.

Disney isn’t the only theme park game in town, though!

Universal Studios Orlando, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is also a fantastic theme park to visit, and big roller coaster fans may even want to take a day trip to Tampa Bay to experience Busch Gardens.

Though the parks are a big draw for people visiting Orlando with kids and kids at heart alike, theme parks aren’t the only places to visit in and around Orlando.

The Kennedy Space Center, plenty of beaches, and even cool swimming holes like Wekiva Springs are within day-trip distance of Orlando.

Portland, Oregon

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your USA bucket list!

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

No doubt about it, there’s something about Nashville, that casts a long-lasting spell on travelers.

For travelers visiting Nashville, it’s not unheard of to plan a return trip as soon as the current one is over!

Only in “The Music City” is it possible to catch the latest exhibit at the Frist Art Museum, see a replica of the Parthenon and enjoy live music at venues along the Honky Tonk Highway.

For first-timers, touring country music icons like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-do.

Don’t overlook artist-specific museums such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Glen Campbell Museum that provides a closer look at these music giants, either.

Much of Nashville’s allure lies within its distinctive neighborhoods, like the Gulch, filled with shops and restaurants.

It isn’t unusual to spot a long line or two here, typically featuring either people waiting in line to take a photo with the “What Lifts You” mural or getting into Biscuit Love.

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

12thSouth offers locally-owned boutiques, stores, and eateries. Also found here is Draper James, the flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s clothing line.

Be sure to take home some cookies from Christie’s Cookie Company and snap a photo with the “I Believe in Nashville” mural.

Across the Cumberland River is the eclectic East Nashville. Don’t miss out on the mini doughnuts at Donut Distillery.

Depending on time, consider visiting Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, as part of your Nashville getaway.

Of course, no trip to Nashville is complete without hot chicken from Prince’s Hot Chicken or biscuits from Loveless Cafe, located near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Boston is such a cool city to visit in the USA, rich in history, architecture, and food.

Along the waterfront, you can walk the 43-mile-long Harbor Walk.

But there is so much more to add to see during your trip to Boston, like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path taking you to 16 significant places in American history.

It is well marked and technically be walked in as little as 90 minutes, though you can download the app and visit each place which will take at least a whole day to complete.

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common, which is situated next to Boston Public Garden.

You can wander the parks and enjoy a ride in the Boston Public Garden’s historic paddleboats.

Nearby, you’ll find the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is an incredibly beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1895 that you should visit.

You’ll also find the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill nearby, as well as the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay.

For the best views of the city during your Boston itinerary , visit the Skywalk Observatory.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the entire country.

Known for its geothermal activity, more than half of the earth’s geysers are located in the national park which straddles the borders of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. 

Old Faithful is one of the most popular things to see in Yellowstone National Park .

The active and predictable geyser erupts approximately 20 times each day.

Visitors to the park gather around to watch the geyser blast hot water and steam into the sky.

Although quite impressive, Old Faithful is just one of many must-see geothermal features found in the park.

One of the largest hot springs in the world, the Grand Prismatic Spring, is another popular attraction in Yellowstone.

Visitors can get an up-close view of the spring or take a short hike for a stunning overview of Grand Prismatic’s vibrant colors.  

Beyond all of its geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, rivers, and more than 200 species of animals.

Bison, deer, moose, wolves, and even bears live in the park.

Because of all the wildlife in Yellowstone, visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution when hiking or camping and to carry bear spray to protect themselves in the event of an encounter.

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Idaho is often overlooked when it comes to cool places to visit in the US, but the tiny town of Stanley serves as the gateway to an abundance of outdoor adventures in the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range and along the swift Salmon River.

Although it has a population of less than 100, Stanley is easily accessible in a 3-hour drive from the main airport in Boise or about a 1-hour drive if you’re coming from Sun Valley.

The best way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains is on one of the many hiking trails.

The hike to Alice Lake is a perfect introduction to the area, and you can either do a 12-mile day hike or backpack the longer Alice/Toxaway Loop over the course of a few days.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover gorgeous views of Alice Lake framed by the “Dragon’s Back” peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, including Idaho’s own “El Capitan.”

For fun on the water, you can go fishing along the Salmon River or swim in Redfish Lake.

When you need some rejuvenation after your adventures, you can reward yourself with great food and drinks at the Stanley Supper Club and take a dip in the hot springs at the Mountain Village Resort.

Once you head home, you’ll surely find yourself raving to your friends about this hidden gem of a mountain town – unless you want to keep the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley a secret for yourself!

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

The Oregon Coast is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the USA, but for those who love moody, dramatic scenery, it is the best place to be.

Although the actual coast isn’t very long (338 or so miles, about a 7.5-hour drive without stopping), it makes for a great weekend or longer trip with added stops.

Starting at the north end, about 2 hours outside of Portland, the city of Astoria will serve as your jumping-off point with picturesque bridges and locations from The Goonies.

Heading south, take a pitstop at the cheese capital of the state  –  Tillamook , Oregon.

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and gorge yourself on all things dairy before continuing on to stunning Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

The highlight of the coast will be Yachats, Oregon, with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that are dedicated to sourcing local sustainable fish, meat, and produce providers.

On the southern end of the coast, you can find sand dunes in Florence, and natural rock arches among the cliffs in Brookings.

If your tolerance for rain is low, summer will be the best season to visit weather-wise, while winter and spring will have smaller crowds and lower prices.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the eastern United States, perfectly showcasing the beauty of the Maine coast.

Acadia has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as easy coastal access for kayaking and sailing. 

When visiting, plan to spend at least  2 days in Acadia National Park  so you can make the most of your time there.

One of the best things to do includes watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll get stunning views of the islands that dot the coast.

Drive Park Loop Road to enjoy some of the park’s most famous attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond (don’t forget to stop for popovers at Jordan Pond House!).

For hiking, choose a paved Carriage Road to take you down to one of the many picturesque ponds and lakes in the park.

Plan your visit in the fall to see the famous New England fall foliage in full display, or in the summer to enjoy long, sunny days perfect for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, add Acadia to your list of places to visit in the US – you won’t be disappointed.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is an incredible destination in the United States. 

This desert ecosystem became a national park as recently as 1994, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen!

The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert meet in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, which means that you will see two very different landscapes depending on which half of the park you are in.  

The Mojave Desert is home to the famous Joshua Tree – a tall and spindly yucca – as well as giant boulders popular with climbers and hikers. 

The majority of the park’s hiking trails are found in this region.

However,  while planning your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary , it would be a mistake to skip the Colorado Desert at the southern end of the park.  

The Colorado Desert is hotter, lower in elevation, and flatter, but holds gorgeous landscapes full of cacti and, at the right time of year, wildflowers. 

 In the summer months, avoid strenuous hikes or leave early in the morning as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.

Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing and well outside the bright light of the city.  

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

From Chris of Called to Wander

Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, evoking adventure for those looking to travel to a truly unique place.

Because the state is massive, at over twice the size of Texas, you could spend as much or as little time exploring it as you have.

Many people take cruises through the Inside Passage and make stops in places like Ketchikan, Haines, and Seward.

Others fly into the main cities of Anchorage or Fairbanks and then rent vehicles and head off on their own adventures.

By far the best way to make the most of an Alaska vacation (though it requires a steep time commitment) is by driving to Alaska and spending as much time as you’d like wandering from one place to the next.

You can drive to the Arctic Ocean along the Dalton Highway, view North America’s largest mountain (Mt. Denali), or observe wildlife like caribou, grizzly bear, and moose.

Or, catch a flight out to a handful of the most remote national parks, or drive up to and hike out to massive, ancient glaciers.

If you enjoy fishing, go after halibut in Homer or salmon in the famous Russian River.

Regardless of what kind of travel you prefer, Alaska offers adventure for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in the US, hosting over 10 million annual visitors, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list for the USA.

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has diverse animal life, plants, and natural attractions. There are tons to do and see. 

If you are feeling adventurous you can go zoom down zip lines, go white water rafting, or go mountain biking. 

For a more relaxed trip, you can go on hikes, see beautiful waterfalls, or simply go for a scenic drive.

Cades Cove, for example, is a broad valley surrounded by mountains you can drive through that is well known for providing the best opportunities for seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and more.

When you aren’t enjoying the outdoors there are numerous mountain towns to enjoy like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville .

Stay in  one of the cabins with a view  of the mountainsides and check out the local attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville . 

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.

Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round. 

Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety of great day hikes just outside of Seattle .

To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife. 

For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.

Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.

Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.

Whatever the choice for season and activity, Mount Rainier National Park is sure to be full of memories and adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.

Arches National Park, Utah

Home to over 2,000 naturally-occurring sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the USA.

Whether you’re hiking to the incredible Delicate Arch (so iconic that it’s featured on Utah’s license plates), wandering through the Devil’s Garden, or taking one of the shorter hikes to visit some of the most impressive arches in the park, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Even one day in Arches National Park is well worth your time, but more would certainly be better.

Arches National Park is also home to internationally-recognized dark skies and some of the best stargazing in the United States–in order to see the best of the park, be sure to visit at least once after dark!

And, while Arches National Park is easily one of the best places to vacation in the US in its own right, the nearby town of Moab also makes an excellent launching pad to visit Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

Not only does Olympic National Park cover nearly a million acres, but it is also the most biodiverse of all the US national parks.

It has it all, from glaciated mountains to breathtaking coastlines, crashing waterfalls, ancient rainforests, enchanting hot springs, and plentiful wildlife.

With such a treasure trove of natural landscapes, Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.

Mountain lovers should budget plenty of time to hike the trails of Hurricane Ridge.

Here you will discover stunning views above the clouds, as well as an abundance of wildlife.

A great way to explore the park is on foot, particularly as much of the park is roadless. There are numerous multi-day hikes to choose from and it’s popular with backpackers.

The 17.4 miles Hoh River Trail is one of the most impressive, taking you through a flourishing rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus.

For coastal visitors, Second Beach is one of the best Olympic Park photography  locations and a perfect spot for sunset. 

However, with 73 miles of wild coastline, there’s plenty to explore!

There are endless options for the waterfall, forest, and nature lovers too.

In Sol Duc forest you can watch crystal water plunge into the lush greenery.

Or, you can choose to explore the vibrant green mosses of the Hoh Rainforest.  

No matter which part of Olympic National Park you visit, you will not be disappointed.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Stretching over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona is one of the largest–and most impressive–canyons on the planet, and one of the most popular places to visit in the USA!

Come to Grand Canyon National Park to admire views from the rim, hike into the canyon , watch the sunrise and sunset, and perhaps even hike all the way down to the Colorado River.

If you do want to hike to the river, though, be warned: doing so is a 2-day commitment!

Anyone taking a southwest road trip in the USA should consider adding a visit to the majestic Grand Canyon to their list: it’s truly a sight that you’ll never forget.

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best places to visit in California is Death Valley National Park .

This park is filled with bright white salt flats, mountains splashed with pastel colors, and eerie rocks that move on their own.

This park is such a strange yet unique environment which makes it perfect for avid photographers.

One of the best things to do is to watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. The views are glorious as the sun slowly sets on the unique colorful mountains.

Afterward, make sure to hike the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. The trailhead is right next to Zabriskie Point.

Another popular activity is visiting Badwater Basin. The basin stands at 282 feet below sea level and is filled with white salt.

This is a great spot to take pictures of the salt in contrast with the tall, dark mountains in the distance.

Nearby the salt flats, you can visit the devil’s golf course where spikey salt formations cover the ground.

The next outstanding area to visit is the Artists Drive. The mountain is sprinkled with pastel colors like yellow, pink, purple, and green.

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the US.

It’s also easily reachable from Denver, Colorado, which has many flights from across the country, making it fairly simple to access and one of the most popular places to vacation in America!

The best place to stay is in Estes Park , a quaint little tourist town in the mountains.

There are many small towns all around the park and many choices for all price points. 

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

You can then enjoy the park by making stops at each vista point and taking hikes from there.

Most stops have short and long hikes; easy and challenging hikes.

There is a hike for everyone, but there is also spectacular scenery right at the vista points, even without a hike.

Keep in mind that the popularity of Rocky Mountain National Park means that certain places, like Bear Lake Road, must be accessed via reservation.

The most popular road that goes across the park is the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

If you don’t have time to visit anything else, I recommend driving Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to the town of Grand Lake.

Other major attractions include Sprague Lake and Bear Lake, to the south of the trail ridge road.

They offer absolutely stunning views and many wildlife viewing opportunities along with the drives. 

There is so much to do around Denver that RMNP can be part of a week-long itinerary visiting Colorado  or a trip just for RMNP. 

Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains along the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

With crystal-clear water and plenty of activities in and out of the water, from hiking to SUP to swimming, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe .

To enjoy the views of the lake itself, summer is definitely the best time to visit–but winter has its charms, too, including plenty of skiing and incredible views of the lake framed by bright white snow.

From romantic couples’ retreats to fun getaways to Lake Tahoe with kids , all kinds of travelers will find something to love about Lake Tahoe.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located on Havasupai tribal lands not far from the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is simultaneously one of the most famous waterfalls in the USA and one of the hardest to access.

In order to visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need to secure an extremely competitive permit (they sell out months in advance) and complete a 10-mile hike in each direction.

You’ll also need to spend the night nearby, as it’s one of the permit requirements set out by the Havasupai people.

If you manage to swing both the logistics and the hike, though, the rewards are pretty spectacular.

Zion National Park, Utah

Home to some of what are quite possibly the best hikes in the country, Utah’s most-visited national park is absolutely one of the best places to see in the US.

Test your fear of heights (if you have one, that is) by hiking the incredible Angel’s Landing, and be rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon.

Venture deep into the Virgin River by hiking The Narrows , a hike that takes place literally in the river!

Seek out incredible views along Observation Point, the Canyon Overlook Trail , and the Watchman Trail.

Try to score a permit to hike the Subway, but if you can’t get one, don’t worry: there’s more to see in Zion National Park than you can cover in one vacation.

No matter how you spend your days at Zion National Park, there’s no doubt that you’ll be experiencing something worthy of a bucket list!

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

California’s magnificent wildflowers may be a bit better known outside of the country, but Texas’ phenomenal spread of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes that decorate the countryside each spring absolutely belong on anyone’s USA bucket list.

Whether you choose to visit the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis (not far from Dallas) or head to the Texas Hill Country , there is no shortage of places to admire bluebonnets in Texas.

Though the blooming times can of course vary a bit depending on the weather, late March and early April are generally the best times to experience the beauty of Texas’ bluebonnets.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences without the price tag of popular destinations out west, then the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the place for you.

One reason the Upper Peninsula (or U.P.) is really unique is that it is an ideal place for adventure seekers all year long. 

In the warmer months, the U.P is a great beach destination in the Midwest thanks to its location with beachfront on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.

In the fall, pack your hiking boots and tackle rocky hiking trails for colorful views you’d never expect in the Midwest.

With an unobstructed panoramic view of Lake Superior, the hike up  Sugar Loaf mountain in Marquette, Michigan  is one of the most popular in the region.

Thanks to some serious snowfall, there’s so much to do in the U.P. in the winter months.

There are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling trails, downhill skiing, dog sledding, ice climbing, and more. 

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Most visitors to the Golden State put   California’s national parks at the top of their itineraries because they are just so spectacular.

Redwood National and State Parks, in the northern part of the state, offer you the chance to stroll among giant redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet.

A group of five parks, Redwood National and State Parks feature not just the towering redwoods, but also epic coastal views, beautiful prairies filled with wildflowers in season, and the chance to see birds and wildlife.

Enjoy some of the scenic drives in the parks: Howland Hill Drive, Coastal Drive, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are all great choices.

Do some of the trails through the redwood groves to see the giant trees up close: the Big Tree Wayside Walk, the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, and Lady Bird Johnson Grove are all super scenic and relatively easy walks.

Gaze up at the trees, and enjoy the ferns and rhododendrons in the understory.

You can also go biking in the parks, and camp if you plan to stay for a few days.

Redwood National and State Parks are about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco by road, and you can visit all year, although you will have the best weather in the summer.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

A little-known gem in the north of Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands.

This island archipelago on Lake Superior looks like it belongs in Southeast Asia – not on the shoreline of a humble midwestern town.

However, its tucked-away location makes it all the more special for visitors.

While the lake freezes in winter, the islands come to life in summer with many activities like  sea kayaking , island hopping, and cliff jumping.

There is even an island home to one of the largest concentrations of bears in the Midwest–yes, bears!

The largest and most populated island is Madeline Island which makes for a great base to explore the nearby smaller islands.

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

Famed for her elegant beaches,  world-class resorts , and next-level surf, Maui attracts visitors from all over the world. 

It’s no surprise that Maui was named Condé Nast Traveler’s best island in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years. 

There are countless things to see and do in Maui depending on your travel style. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through a majestic bamboo forest ending at a 400-foot waterfall.  

Ocean lovers can test their skills at surfing or set sail on a sunset cruise.

There won’t be a shortage of exotic beaches to explore, no matter what your travel style is.

The adventure seekers have their pick among plunging the popular Road to Hana or watching the sunrise above the clouds at 10,000 feet inside Haleakala National Park. 

Whatever your draw, sunsets, beaches, luxury, or adventure, Maui has it all. 

Not only is Maui one of the best USA travel destinations but it’s one of the best places to take a tropical vacation in the world. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For adorable beach towns, sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten in your life, head to the classic New England summer getaway of Cape Cod.

While you’re in Cape Cod (or as New Englanders say, “on the Cape”), hit one of the beautiful trails, visit a lighthouse or two, stick your toes in the sand, and eat lots and lots of lobster.

While Cape Cod’s swimming season is much shorter than popular beach destinations elsewhere in the country, it’s still well worth visiting.

Just be sure to plan ahead, because rental houses for summer on the Cape tend to book up before winter even wraps up!

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Towering cliffs covered in dense jungle, dramatic waterfalls, small valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean far below: welcome to the Nā Pali   Coast.

Without a doubt, the Nā Pali   Coast on Kauai is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the US.

Stretching 17 miles along the northwest portion of Kauai, the Nā Pali   Coast is best admired from air–usually via a helicopter tour–or from a boat on the sea.

Whichever option you choose, there’s no doubt that what is arguably the most beautiful corner of The Garden Island is bound to impress.

Florida Keys

For a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the USA, head to the Florida Keys!

Not only is the overseas drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic road trips in the USA, but the Keys themselves are also fantastic, home to beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, great food, and plenty of things to do.

While you’re there, be sure to hit the water via snorkeling or scuba diving, go for a swim, enjoy the famous Duval Street, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and eat several slices of the region’s famous Key Lime pie!

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

The biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) is a cool place to visit.

That starts with the weather: you’ll experience a lot of sunshine temperatures ranging from 85°- 90° in the summer months and 79°- 83 in the winter months, making it the perfect place to escape year-round. 

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

The food is phenomenal and the choices are vast with plenty of history and cultural backgrounds.

The array of activities ranges from land to sea, from memorable ancient sites to beautiful folklore traditions. 

Some of the best things to do when taking a vacation to the Big Island include:

Zip Lining over waterfalls is an activity that can be very exhilarating if you are an adrenaline junkie.

This can also be enjoyed as a family activity, some companies allow kids as young as 5 years old to participate.

Volcano National Park is a breathtaking experience with its majestic hikes, thrilling ride down to the Chain of Craters, and some spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

Papakolea or Green Sand Beach is one of 4 green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to this remote beach is very worthwhile, and the backdrop of the Hawaiian blue ocean that keeps you company makes the whole experience priceless.

And the list goes on, you can check it out here .

Outer Banks, North Carolina

With sandy beaches framed by sand dunes and rolling waves, the Outer Banks of North Carolina may not boast the bright water of the Florida Keys or the tropical beauty of Hawaii, but they are stunning all the same, and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Come for the small beach towns, the history of the Wright Brothers taking their first flight here, the southern food, the historic forts, and the beautiful lighthouses. 

Come for the sunken pirate ships, for the wild horses that live on some of the islands, for the great places to swim, and for the great day trip opportunities.

If you’re looking for a classic, all-American vacation, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that make up the magnificent Outer Banks.

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

While visitors sometimes think of Oahu as just being a stopping point before visiting Hawaii’s other islands, the island has so much to offer than overcrowded beaches and tourist attractions.

Oahu is home to delicious food, beautiful scenery, and captivating history and is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

Most visitors to Oahu will base themselves in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city.

Guidebooks often recommend spending little time in Honolulu; however, this city is a melting pot of culture and is home to some of the best food on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness. 

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing  things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers. 

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features. 

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

There are plenty of amazing  things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

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The best states to visit in the USA

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You could spend a lifetime exploring the USA and still not see it all. The world’s third-most populous country offers every imaginable opportunity for travellers. When planning a trip, it helps to have a game plan. Here is our guide to the best states to visit while travelling in the United States. Don’t forget to apply for your ESTA USA  on time: this travel authorization is compulsory to enter the United States.

1. California — The Golden State and one of the best states in the USA

2. colorado — the centennial state, 3. massachusetts — the bay state, 4. wisconsin — the badger state, 5. utah — the beehive state, 6. louisiana — the bayou state, 7. wyoming — the cowboy state, 8. washington — the evergreen state, 9. hawaii — the aloha state, 10. new york — the empire state, 11. texas — the lone star state.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to the USA — your essential guide for travelling in the United States.

With rural villages, large cities, towering mountains, and ocean beaches — you can discover every bit of America within the borders of California . The Golden State offers travellers gorgeous views paired with some of the best year-round weather in the country.

• Visit one of California's major cities. California has so many great cities to visit, it's far from possible to mention them all here. Take a stroll down the Santa Monica Boardwalk in Los Angeles, or enjoy the entertaining chaos of Sunset Blvd in Hollywood. Enjoy immaculate beaches in San Diego or visit the annual Comic-con. Take a cable car down the steep hills of San Francisco, or walk across the iconic Golden Gate bridge — and don't forget to sample the local sourdough.
• Go on a road trip. For one of the best drives in the world, cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway. Drive the entire coastal stretch of this beautiful state, from Southern California to breathtaking Muir Woods. Or head inland to taste some of Earth’s finest wine in Napa Valley.
• Visit one of California's many parks . Go to the south to see the vast sands of Death Valley national park and the distinct foliage of Joshua tree national park. Or head north to the mountain-rimmed Lake Tahoe and the jaw-dropping Yosemite national park. One of the most beautiful state parks in the USA - Emerald Bay State Park - is also worth your attention.

We've collected a list of the best beaches in California , don't forget to visit at least one of them while you are there.

• Popular with LGBTQ+: Parker Guest House in San Francisco . This converted mansion is set amid beautiful gardens.
• Best for lake views in Lake Tahoe: Lakeland Village at Heavenly . Charming wooden decor with its own private beach area.
• Browse more accommodations in California or read our guide to the best areas to stay in Los Angeles .

California — one of the best states in to visit in the USA © Bmstockstudio/Shutterstock

Progressive and increasingly multicultural, Colorado is one of the best states to visit in the USA. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty and liberal city centres, Colorado is not to be missed.

What to do in Colorado

• Visit Denver — one of the fastest-growing cities in America. It's packed with cultural institutions such as the Denver Art Museum.
• Take a dip in the natural hot springs . Colorado springs is known for being one of the best places to visit for those in need of a thermally-heated dip.
• Go on outdoor adventures. Explore the hiking trails of Rocky mountain national park. Discover the ancient dwellings of Mesa Verde national park. Or find yourself in the towering sand of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
• Ski in Aspen. When many think of Aspen, they think of some of the best skiing in the country — and for good reason. Beyond hitting the snow, Aspen also offers boutique shops and top-notch festivals.

Where to stay in Colorado

• For a classy but family-friendly stay in Denver: the Oxford Hotel . This historic hotel is centrally located and offers stylish rooms.
• For a romantic getaway in Aspen: St Moritz Lodge in Aspen . A short walk from downtown, and with a heated pool onsite.
• Find even more places to stay in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park outside Denver, Colorado © Dr. Alan Lipkin/Shutterstock

Although it's been over 400 years since the first settlers landed in Plymouth, Massachusett s, the state remains as integral to the fabric of American life as ever. In terms of historical significance, it's undoubtedly one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in Massachusetts

• Visit Boston, one of America’s oldest cities. Today it's a thriving and cutting-edge coastal metropolis. Go to a local sports bar to watch a Red Sox baseball game, and grab a beer from of the many renowned local craft breweries.
• Explore the windswept coastal beauty of Cape Cod . This area is home to iconic island retreats such as Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Cape Cod offers an endless assortment of charming small towns such as Provincetown.
• Enjoy the fall foliage . Many Americans flock to the east coast each year for a "leaf-peeping tour". The local trees turn brilliant colours in the autumn and are worth travelling to see.

Where to stay in Massachusetts

• Best for couples: Land's End Inn in Provincetown . This turreted house is extravagantly decorated and many of the rooms have sweeping ocean views. A truly original and special place.
• For luxury: Hotel Commonwealth in Boston . Old-world charm paired with modern decor makes this a top choice in Boston's luxury hotel scene.
• Check out more places to stay in Massachusetts

Ready for your trip to the United States? Don't miss our guide to the 20 foods you absolutely must try while in the US .

Cape Cod, a great place to visit in the USA © J.A. Johnson/Shutterstock

To truly 'get' the USA, you must experience all of its regions. And while the Midwest isn’t high on most international traveller’s agendas, it's as essential to understanding America as New York City or Washington DC. Long known for cheese and beer, Wisconsin is about as American as you can get.

What to do in Wisconsin

• Visit lake Michigan and Superior . Get out of the cities to enjoy a true slice of Americana by fly-fishing, hunting, or snowmobiling in small towns like Eagle River. Or, relax lakeside with a cold drink in hand at resort communities like Door County.
• Visit Milwaukee — home of Harley-Davidson and Pabst Blue Ribbon. Take a tour of the city's many breweries. Or take the family on an exciting scavenger hunt through Milwaukee .
• For a truly American experience, the Wisconsin State Fair. This family-friendly event offers an authentic taste of American agriculture.

Where to stay in Wisconsin

• Best for city stays: Hyatt Regency Milwaukee . Comfortable and affordable room located right in the middle of downtown.
• For beer lovers: The Brewhouse Inn & Suites . Located inside the Pabst Brewery, this hotel is any beer aficionado's dream.
• Check out more great places to stay in Wisconsin

Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin © F11photo/Shutterstock

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Utah is home to some of the biggest and most beautiful landscapes in North America. With brightly coloured canyons and thickly forested mountains, Utah is one of the best places to visit in the USA.

What to do in Utah

• Visit Salt Lake City. SLC is one of America’s more underrated mid-sized cities, boasting a booming contemporary food and drink scene paired with spectacular mountain scenery.
• The Big Five. Near St. George, one can find five of the most spectacular national parks in the United States — including Zion National Park and Arches National Park. Here one can find some of the most iconic hiking trails in the entire country. From here, road trip south to Arizona to see the Grand canyon national park.
• Go skiing. The gorgeous mountain town of Park City, located by Salt Lake City, is the state’s premier ski community. It also plays host to the star-studded Sundance Film Festival.

Where to stay in Utah

• Best for family adventures in St George: St George: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel. A charming chain hotel with comfortable rooms, close to the national parks.
• Best for city stays: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel at Temple Square . A comfortable and clean stay in Utah's Salt Lake City downtown area.
• Find more places to stay in Utah

Zion National Park, one of the nation's most beautiful national parks © Calin Tatu/Shutterstock

No exploration of America is complete without a visit to the culture-packed American South, and the swamps of Louisiana are no exception. Visit the Bayou state for its distinctive offbeat charms and some of the finest food and drink in the country.

What to do in Lousiana

• Enjoy Louisiana's distinctive, spicy Creole cuisine. Creole food is a rich blend of French, Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisine, mixed up with a host of other influences including Native American, Italian, and German.
• Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans' French Quarter. The Crescent City brims with a sense of life and diverse culture that is impossible to replicate anywhere in the world. This is most famously (and flamboyantly) brought to life during Mardi Gras.
• For a family day out: take a swamp tour. Watch out for alligators lurking in the ghostly, cypress-clogged bayou.

Where to stay in Louisiana

• For celebrating Mardi Gras, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans. Located in the historic French Quarter on Bourbon Street, this is the best place to stay during the Fat Tuesday celebration.
• Best for families in New Orleans: Hampton Inn Downtown/French Quarter Area . Spacious rooms in a central location.
• Find more accommodation in Louisiana

Ready to take your dream trip to the United States? Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without any of the stress of planning and booking. Our trips are completely customisable and crafted by local travel experts. Our Cross Country USA trip takes you to San Francisco, Las Vegas, New Orleans and more.

A paddle steamer on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Lousiana © f11photo/Shutterstock

Pronghorn antelope all but outnumber people in wide-open Wyoming , the least populous state in the US. This is classic cowboy country — replete with dude ranches, rodeos and country music halls.

What to do in Wyoming

• Discover the national parks . Grand Teton national park is known for its rugged mountains. Meanwhile, Yellowstone national park is the nation's oldest national park, and most popular. You won't want to miss this otherworldly site.
• The city of Jackson. Crammed with boutiques, art galleries, old west bars, and excellent restaurants, Jackson is worth a visit. You won't want to miss the Jackson Hole Rodeo for a day of family-friendly western kitch.
• Find fossils. Wyoming is known for being one of the "dinosaur hot spots" of the world. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is a great place to see the state's findings.

The Rough Guides to USA and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Where to stay in Wyoming

• For your Yellowstone adventure: Elk Horn Lodge . Cabins are centrally located in Cooke City, right outside of Yellowstone national park.
• For your skiing adventure: Snow King Resort in Jackson . An affordable, family-friendly ski resort that is also lit for night skiing.
• Check out even more accommodations in Wyoming

Grand Teton, Wyoming © Shutterstock

The pacific north-west is known for its rich natural beauty and heavy rain that sweeps in from the pacific. Smothered with dense forests of fir, cedar, and cypress, Washington really is the "evergreen state".

What to do in Washington

• See jaw-dropping views. Take a drive through the Cascade loop. This series of highways pass pristine alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks. Or visit Mount Rainier national park, one of Washington's most visited tourist attractions.
• Visit Seattle — known as the "Emerald City" and the home of grunge rock. Enjoy street entertainment and delicious seafood dinners at the lively Pike Place market. Or spend the afternoon at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) — a funky and fun museum of music and more.
• Ferry to the San Juan Islands. With charming towns, culinary treats and the chance to see the resident killer whales, the San Juan islands are one of the best places to visit.

Where to stay in Washington

• For Seattle: Staypineapple . Hip boutique hotel with a bright, pop art theme located in downtown Seattle.
• For San Juan Islands: Orcas Hotel. A vintage victorian Inn and the best place to stay in the San Juan islands. With cosy rooms and luxurious suites right on the water's edge.
• Find more places to stay in Washington state.

Ready to explore the natural sites of the US? You won't want to miss our guide to the best places to embrace the great outdoors in the United States .

Autumn colors in Mt. Rainier National Park © Mike Peters/Shutterstock

With towering volcanoes, palm tree-lined beaches, and glorious cliffs — the Hawaiian islands are understandably a popular tourist destination. Despite its isolation, Hawaii boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and is one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in Hawaii

• Tropical beaches. Hawaii is known first and foremost for its beautiful beaches. Learn to surf at Waikiki Beach in Oahu, or sip a cocktail under the palm trees at Lumahai Beach, Kauai.
• Explore the power of Hawaii's volcanoes by visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island. Specifically, a hike around Kilauea Caldra, the most impressive crater in the park.
• Take a walk along the oceanfront streets of Lahaina, Maui. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is one of Hawaii's prettiest communities.

Where to stay in Hawaii

• For something with character: The Royal Hawaiian . This hotel, established in the 1920s, is one of Waikiki's best-loved landmarks. Affectionately known as the "Pink Palace" and located directly on the beach.
• For a comfortable resort: King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel . Rooms at this veteran resort hotel are comfortable and feature picturesque views of the ocean.
• See more accommodation in Hawaii.

Dreaming of hitting the beach? Check out our guide to the best beaches in the United States .

Beach Lava Boulders and Shipwreck view © JMT2064/Shutterstock

New York is home to America's most celebrated and most populous city. The words "New York" are bound to bring to mind soaring skyscrapers and congested streets. However, you won't want to miss the surrounding area of this state. New York remains one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in New York

• Visit New York City , one of the best cities in the US . There is no end to what there is to do in this iconic city. Take a stroll through Central Park. Visit one of the many world-class museums, such as the Metropolitan museum. Or take in the views from the top of the Empire State building.
• Visit the massive Niagra Falls. Take the Made of Mist boat trip, or visit the Cave of the Winds and stand close enough to feel the spray from these majestic falls.
• Visit the Adirondacks. This area is a vast and rugged alpine wilderness offering superb skiing, fishing and hiking trails. This is also a great place for mountain biking.

Where to stay in New York

• For a hip hotel: The Jane in NYC . This hotel offers rooms inspired by ship cabins (as the building was originally in 1908 built to accommodate sailors.
• For a stylish stay: Arlo Soho. Enjoy the comfortable rooms and sweeping views from this hotel's rooftop.
• For more ideas on where to stay, don't miss our guide to the best areas to stay in New York City .

Ready to finally see New York City? Our tailor-made trip service allows you to travel without the stress of planning or booking. Our trips are completely customisable and crafted by local travel experts. Our East Coast Adventure trip takes you to New York City, Boston, Philly and more.

Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York © nyker/Shutterstock

When one thinks of America, they are sure to think of Texas . One of the largest states in the country and home to a great amount of geographical diversity. Culturally, the lone star state stands proudly apart from the rest of the USA.

What to do in Texas:

• Spend time in San Antonio. History buffs will want to visit the Alamo, which lies smack in the centre of downtown. Art lovers will want to see the McNay Art Museum, with its striking collection and otherworldly architecture. Don't miss the San Antonio river walk for hip places to eat and shop.
• Take a trip to Houston. Although a car is recommended when visiting, this vast city has a lot to offer. Don't miss the Space Center Houston or the Big Thicket National Preserve.
• Get "weird" in Austin. Austin has a reputation for being different from its neighbouring cities. You'll find here a laidback, progressive city with a thriving arts community.

Where to stay in Texas:

• For a trendy place to stay in Houston: Hotel Zaza . This hotel offers themed suites like the "Casablanca" wrapped around a sleek pool
• For a swanky stay in Austin: The Driskill . Stay here for the opulent marble lobby or the classicly decorated rooms

The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Our list of great places to visit in the United States could truly keep going, but for now, we will leave you with our top 11 states. Ready to visit the USA? Check out the Rough Guide to the United States . Read more about the best time to go, the best places to visit and best things to do in the US .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the US without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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Here Are the Most (and Least) Fun States in the US

If you're looking to have fun, then it's time to head west.

Wallethub has released its list of the most fun states in the country and found California is where it's at.

"There are certain states where fun is not just an option but also a way of life," Wallethub wrote about its list in a blog post . "These states offer such a variety of activities that everyone will be able to find something that excites them."

To determine the rankings, Wallethub compared all 50 states across 26 "indicators of a jolly good time that won't break the bank." The indicators included the average weather, the cost of going to the movies, accessibility to national parks, as well as restaurants, fitness centers, and casinos per capita.

After calculating the results, California came out on top with a total score of 63.60. The state came in first place for its "entertainment and recreation" rank as well as third place for its "nightlife" rank.

Florida came in a close second with a score of 61.26. Rounding out the top 10 most fun states are Nevada, New York , Illinois, Colorado, Washington, Texas, Minnesota, and Louisiana.

It was a close race. According to Wallethub, California, New York, Florida, and Texas all tied for having the most restaurants per capita. California and Texas tied for having the most movie theaters as well.

Because everyone's idea of fun is different, it's worth exploring Wallethub's other findings.

For example, those looking to experience national parks may want to head to Alaska, Wyoming, and Montana, which came in first, second, and third place respectively for their access to parks.

And, travelers hoping to get in a round of golf should look to Michigan, Iowa, and Wisconsin, which also ranked first to third for their number of golf courses per capita.

As for where fun-seekers should avoid, Wallethub ranked West Virginia as the least fun state. It came in 49th place for its "entertainment and recreation" rank and 46th for its "nightlife" rank.

Other states in the bottom 10 include Kentucky, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Alabama, Vermont, Arkansas, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Mississippi.

Looking to have more fun on vacation? Try these 13 totally under-the-radar destinations that are packed with good times for travelers of all ages.

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Exclusive poll: Black voters aren't thrilled with Biden but dislike Trump more

A new poll of black voters in michigan and pennsylvania, shows biden has lost ground - but not to trump.

Black voters helped put Joe Biden in the White House four years ago. They may not vote to give him a second term, even though they dislike former president Donald Trump far more, according to an exclusive new USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll.

The poll, of Black voters in the swing states of Pennsylvania and Michigan, found that Biden is still the first or second choice of the vast majority, while most would avoid Trump.

Like many Americans, Olivia and Macayla Jones aren't happy with either one.

"I guess you can call us double-haters,” said Olivia Jones, 22, from Lansing, Michigan, a senior at Central Michigan University. 

But the sisters' votes will be among the most highly sought after by presidential hopefuls who may see their fortunes come down to just a few thousand votes in pivotal battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

"I'm not voting for Trump, but I’m not excited about voting for Biden," she added. "None of my close friends are excited about either candidate. It’s a universal feeling."

Macayla Jones, 23, a communications coordinator for a youth center in Bellville, Michigan, said she will likely end up voting for Biden as "the less of two evils, which still kind of disturbs me."

More: Biden has a problem with Black voters. So does Trump.

In 2020, Biden carried 92% of Black voters nationwide with Trump winning just 8%, according to  Pew Research Center validated voter studies .

Less than 150 days until Biden faces his predecessor again, however, various campaign yardsticks indicate African American support for Biden is far more anemic this time around.

In states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, where the race could be decided by the slimmest of margins, the president can hardly afford to lose any support from his most reliable base as he faces a rematch with Trump.

For his part, Trump said his campaign is making inroads with the Black community. But polls, including the USA TODAY/Suffolk survey released Sunday, show those might not be as big as he thinks.

The poll shows Trump remains deeply unpopular with African American voters, who indicate they still favor Biden and will opt for third party candidates like Cornel West or Robert F. Kennedy Jr. before casting their ballot for the former president.

Again and again, in this poll and others, the majority of Black voters say they may not be in love with Biden but, as Kevin Hill, 46, of Oakland, California, put it, "What's the alternative? Trump?"

Both candidates face challenges and opportunities

David Paleologos who directs Suffolk's Political Research Center and led the new poll, said the good news for Biden is that he might be able to win back some of those voters who say they're not big fans or prefer third-party candidates. In Michigan, for instance, he's the first choice of 54% of voters in both states and the second choice of an additional 45%, the poll showed.

Trump is polling somewhat higher than the 2020 exit polls, with about 15% in Michigan saying they'll support him and 11% in Pennsylvania, compared to single-digits in the last election.

The silver lining for Trump, Paleologos said, is that because Biden won 13 times Trump’s support from Black voters the last time, to maintain the same level of support, Biden would need to earn 13 new Black votes for every vote he loses to Trump.

"That's why Trump feels a sense of improvement in the Black community," Paleologos said. Still, whether those people who support Trump, who tend to be less educated, lower income, independent and inconsistent voters, will actually turn out in November remains to be seen.

"Why would they vote in 2024, if they didn't in 2020?" Paleologos asked. "The least-connected, the least involved people matter the most in these swing states."

The new phone survey was conducted with 500 African American registered voters in Pennsylvania and an equal number in Michigan between June 9 and 13. The poll in each state has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points, meaning results that are close might have happened by chance.

By focusing on African Americans in these swing states, the poll reveals new information about how likely voters feel about key issues facing the country and where the candidates have strengths, weaknesses and opportunities.

Many of their positions are similar to those of most other Americans'. More than half of those polled in both states say they think the country is headed in the wrong direction. They list "inflation/economy" as their top issue heading into the fall's election.

These Black voters also stand apart on some cultural issues. They oppose book bans and strongly support the teaching of African American history in public schools.

A little over half of those polled said they are against transgender minors getting gender-affirming medical care, well above the national average from other surveys.

Support for abortion with few restrictions, at about 70% in both states, comes in above the 63% seen in a recent national poll .

Ronald Bennett, 67, of Pittsburgh, said Biden's support for legalizing abortion at the national level is one of the reasons he will vote for the president's reelection.

"A woman has control over her own body, not no man and not no president," he said.

'Less enthusiasm' for Biden but disgust for Trump

Of the Black voters polled who voted for Biden in 2020 but said they weren't supporting him now, more than a third said they haven't been impressed with his performance in office. Fourteen percent said he's now too old for the job, one percent more than those who said they're concerned about his support for Israel during the war in Gaza; and 11% said Biden hasn't kept his promises.

Interviews with voters anecdotally supported these findings, with several expressing fatigue with Biden and his party. Chiefly, they expressed a frustration with legislative failures on policies Black voters are invested in, such as police accountability and voting rights , according to various experts and national civil rights leaders.

Alicia Coulter, 46, of Los Angeles, said she gets that people have reason to be unhappy with the current president. But she said the Republican-led backlashes against diversity initiatives and classroom curriculum, in addition to Trump's history of incendiary and racist remarks, should be enough to motivate them to vote.

“I'm frustrated that certain age groups, especially millennials and Gen Z, question if Trump would do better for them in terms of lowering taxes and improving the job market," Coulter said.

"Let’s use some common sense here."

According to a Washington Post-Ipso poll in April , Biden bests Trump among Black voter in terms of trust on handling issues they care about such as the economy, crime, abortion, the war in Gaza and racism by at least 3-to-1 margins.

Bennett, who worked as a certified nurse aid in a senior living facility until he had to go on disability after a 2012 stroke, said he likes Biden because "he's a union man."

Bennett remains concerned about inflation. The $16 he gets every month in food stamps is only enough to buy a loaf of bread and a dozen eggs.

"They act like they give you a lot when they give you food stamps but food stamps is not enough for the price of food now," he said. "Once I pay all my bills and everything, I have nothing."

Still, he doesn't think it's Biden's fault ‒ or that the economy would be any better under Trump.

"Everybody blames the president but the president only has a certain amount of control over the economy. He can’t change the way things is," Bennett said.

Trump supporters

James Jones, 42, of Detroit, said he voted for Trump in 2020 and plans to again in November.

A married father of two adult children with a self-professed “do-it-yourself” mentality, Jones said he simply believes Trump has more of America’s interests in mind than Biden and the Democrats. 

“I think that Trump is focused on what America needs and not so much the rest of the world. We need more of that,” said Jones, a handyman. “He’s going to make sure that our money is being spent here instead of elsewhere. He believes in let’s look out for us.  He’s for our country, plain and simple.”

Jones said he’s not worried about Trump’s recent convictions and doesn’t think that will stop him from returning to the White House.

In the USA TODAY/Suffolk poll, 64% of Michigan voters said the conviction will make them less likely to support Trump, while 9% said they are now more likely to support him. (In Pennsylvania, the comparable figures were 65% and 5% respectively.)

Just over half of Michigan voters surveyed would send Trump to jail for his transgressions while about 20% would impose a hefty fine. In Pennsylvania, 61% want him to serve time, while 17% said a fine would suffice.

Jones voted Democratic for years, but chose Trump in 2020, because he felt the Democrats were taking Black votes for granted. He said he even regrets voting twice for former President Barack Obama.

“If I had only known then what I know now,” Jones said. “I think the Democrats have tricked (Black voters) for far too long. We can do better.” 

Turning to a third party

In both states, 15% to just over 16% of voters said their first choice candidate belongs to neither the Democratic nor Republican party.

Both independents Cornel West and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. were essentially tied in both states with 6% to 8% each, well within the poll's margin of error. Green Party candidate Jill Stein received the support of just 1% of those polled and the Libertarian Party's Chase Oliver barely registered with voters at all.

Beza Wossene, 37, of Philadelphia, said fellow academic Cornel West resonates with her. The Democratic Party is about the status quo, she said, while West represents the dramatic change the county really needs.

Her own financial struggles ‒ despite a master's degree and job as a college administrator ‒ have reinforced for her the problems with America's economic, social and racial situation and driven her to consider a third-party candidate, she said.

"I thought if I did everything that my parents didn't do that I would be able to get myself out of the working class," Wossene said. But "making ends meet, month to month with two young children has become really, really challenging with the cost of gas and the cost of food."

In addition to economic issues, she said she's upset that the Democrats didn't do more to protect abortion rights, and she's convinced she'll have to leave the country, send her children to private school or homeschool them.

"They're not really learning the truth; they're not learning history," she said of students in public schools.

Kevin Nathaniel Hylton, 64, of the New York City borough of Brooklyn, said he plans to vote for Kennedy, whom he describes as a fighter against "corporate corruption," which he believes stands in the way of Black rights and civil liberties.

 “I don’t think he does enough, but I feel he will do more in the White House than those other two,” Hylton said about Kennedy whom he’s met twice. He came away impressed.

Hylton, a musician and former registered Republican, said he doesn't hate the main party candidates, though he didn’t vote for either Biden or Trump to become president four years ago. But he has a long memory.

He still hasn’t forgotten when Trump reportedly disparaged Haiti and other African nations in 2018.

And he still takes great offense to Biden's May 2020 comment during an interview with national radio personality Charlamagne tha God “if you have a problem figuring out whether you’re for me or Trump, then you ain’t Black.” Biden later apologized.

If Kennedy doesn't make the ballot in New York , Hylton said he'll stay home in November. “That’s a sign telling me not to vote again.” 

Understanding the stakes

Still many voters, like Sanford Howie II, of Inglewood, California, remain unsure about who to support in November.

In the USA TODAY/Suffolk poll, 14% of voters in both Michigan and Pennsylvania said they are undecided.

Howie, a longtime registered Democrat, has been worried about Biden's decision-making. And he doesn't trust Trump.

"I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do this time," Howie, an accountant for a large construction company, told USA TODAY. "I don’t necessarily believe in either of them right now."

Olivia and Macalya Jones, the two sisters living in swing state Michigan, understand how their peers' votes could tip the scales in 2024.

"And my fear of Trump has to overpower my hatred for Biden. Because we can’t go back to that,” Olivia Jones said.

Both worry whether either Biden or Trump will tackle the topics they care about, such as a cease-fire to end Israel's war in Gaza, safeguarding reproductive rights, eliminating student loan debt and pushing for more gun reforms. 

“I would prefer candidates who better represent our generation and what we want to see this country look like,” Macayla Jones said. “Someone who’s listening to us.”

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Cheers, cake and a fist-bump from GOP as Trump returns to Capitol Hill in a first since Jan. 6 riot

Donald Trump has made a triumphant return to Capitol Hill to meet with House and Senate Republicans for the first time since the Jan. 6, 2021 attack.

Donald Trump returned Thursday to Capitol Hill, whipping up Congressional Republicans in his first meetings there since the Jan. 6, 2021 attacks, embraced by GOP lawmakers who find themselves newly energized by his bid to retake the White House.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures to supporters as he arrives for a visit to the offices of Safari Club International after meeting with Republican senators at the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

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Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump arrives to speak with reporters at the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Washington. At left is Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures before he speaks at the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Former President Donald Trump arrives to the Capitol Hill Club, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks with reporters at the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump made a triumphant return to Capitol Hill on Thursday, his first with lawmakers since the Jan.6, 2021 attacks, embraced by energized House and Senate Republicans who find themselves reinvigorated by his bid to retake the White House.

Despite pending federal charges against Trump for conspiring to overturn the 2020 election , and his recent guilty verdict in an unrelated hush money trial, the Republican former president arrived emboldened as the party’s presumptive nominee. He has successfully purged the GOP of critics, silenced most skeptics and enticed once-critical lawmakers aboard his MAGA-fueled campaign.

A packed room of House Republicans sang “Happy Birthday” to Trump in a private breakfast meeting at GOP campaign headquarters across the street from the Capitol. The lawmakers gave him a baseball and bat from the annual congressional game, and senators later presented an American flag cake with “45” candles — and then “47" — referring to the next presidency. Trump bragged that even his telephone rallies for lawmakers could draw bigger crowds than mega-popstar Taylor Swift, who has yet to make any endorsement.

In one remarkable moment, Trump and his most prominent Republican critic, Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell, shook hands, and fist-bumped.

“There’s tremendous unity in the Republican Party,” Trump said in brief remarks at Senate GOP headquarters.

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Trump spent about an hour each with House and Senate Republicans delivering free-wheeling remarks, fielding questions and discussing issues — including Russia and immigration , tax cuts and other priorities for a potential second term.

During the morning session, Trump said House Speaker Mike Johnson is doing a “terrific job,” according to a Republican in the private meeting and granted anonymity to discuss it. Trump asked Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the speaker’s chief Republican critic, if she was being “nice” to Johnson, another Republican said.

“President Trump brought an extraordinary amount of energy, excitement and enthusiasm this morning,” Johnson said afterward, noting high fund-raising tallies since the guilty verdict. “We’re feeling good.”

The Republican speaker had demurred earlier over whether he’s asked Trump to respect the peaceful transfer of presidential power and commit to not doing another Jan. 6. “Of course he respects that, we all do, and we’ve all talked about it, ad nauseum.”

Many potential priorities for a new White House administration are being formulated by a constellation of outside groups, including Project 2025 , laying the groundwork for executive and legislative actions, though Trump has made clear he has his own agenda.

“Anybody who thought that this president was going to be down after the sham trial ... . It’s only giving him even more energy,” said Rep. Tom Emmer, the GOP whip. “Donald Trump is crushing this election.”

But Trump’s private meetings with House and Senate Republicans so close to the Capitol were infused with the symbolism of his return as the U.S. president who threatened the American tradition of the peaceful transfer of power.

“It’s frustrating,” said former U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn , who made his own unsuccessful run for Congress as a Maryland Democrat in the aftermath of Jan. 6, the day when police engaged in hand-to-hand fighting to stop Trump supporters who stormed the building in an effort to overturn President Joe Biden’s election.

Dunn spoke of the “irony” of Trump returning to the area and lawmakers now embracing him. “It just shows the lack of backbone they have when they’re truly putting party and person over country,” he said. “And it’s sad.”

AP AUDIO: Cheers, cake and a fist-bump from GOP as Trump returns to Capitol Hill in a first since Jan. 6 riot

AP Washington correspondent Sagar Meghani reports former President Donald Trump has made a festive return to Capitol Hill -- his first appearance since the Capitol riot.

Biden was overseas Thursday attending a summit of the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations, but the president’s campaign unveiled a new ad blaming Trump for lighting the “fire” of Jan. 6 and threatening democracy.

Many of those who once stood up to Trump are long gone from office and the Republicans who remain seem increasingly enthusiastic about the possibility of him retaking the White House, and the down-ballot windfall that could mean for their own GOP majorities in Congress.

Thursday afternoon offered the first encounter in years between Trump and McConnell, who once blamed Trump for the “disgraceful” attack that he called an “insurrection” but now endorses the party’s presumptive nominee.

AP AUDIO: Trump returns to Capitol Hill and whips up Republican lawmakers in first meeting since Jan. 6 attack

At a news conference, House Speaker Mike Johnson says Donald Trump’s appearance energized the GOP.

Trump addressed the situation directly, saying he intends to work with everyone and that McConnell had “done his best” as leader, said Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., an ally of the former president.

According to Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., who organized the conference meeting, after Trump addressed the group McConnell gave a thumbs up and the two approached each other and exchanged the fist-bump.

“We had a really positive meeting,” McConnell said. “He and I got a chance to talk a little bit, shook hands a few times.”

As democracies around the world come under threat from a far-rightward shift, some analysts warn that the U.S. system, once seemingly immune from authoritarian impulses, is at risk of populist and extremist forces like those that Trump inspired to sack the Capitol.

“This is just another example of House Republicans bending the knee to Donald Trump,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar of California, the chairman of the House Democratic caucus.

Making Jan. 6 a cornerstone of his reelection campaign, Trump celebrates those who stormed the Capitol as “warriors” and “patriots,” and he has vowed to pardon any number of the more than 1,200 people charged with crimes for the assault on the seat of U.S. democracy.

Moreover, Trump has vowed to seek retribution by ousting officials at the U.S. Justice Department, which is prosecuting him in a four-count indictment to overturn the election ahead of the Jan. 6 attack and another case over storing classified documents at his Mar-A-Largo home.

Republicans, particularly in the House but increasingly in the Senate, are vigorously following his lead, complaining of an unfair justice system. It’s having noticeable results: the House and Senate GOP campaign arms scored some of their highest fundraising periods yet after a jury found him guilty in the New York hush money case.

When former GOP Speaker Paul Ryan on Fox News reiterated this week that he wouldn’t be voting for Trump and wished Republicans had another choice for president, he was immediately ostracized by Trump allies.

“Paul Ryan, you’re a piece of garbage,” said Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas. “We should kick you out of the party.”

Of the Republicans who voted to impeach Trump over Jan. 6 and convict him on the charge of inciting the insurrection, only a few remain in office.

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, had not been expected to attend Thursday’s closed-door session with Trump. But Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, joined as did Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La.

Cassidy said he’s attending the Trump meeting expecting “he’s going to be the next president, so you have to work” together.

Asked if he was concerned about the direction of the Trump Republican Party, Cassidy said: “Let the day’s own troubles be sufficient for the day. You can fill yourself up with anxiety about tomorrow, but will it change a thing? No.”

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin, Farnoush Amiri, Kevin Freking, Mary Clare Jalonick and Stephen Groves contributed to this report.

How every senator voted on the Right to IVF Act

The Senate on Thursday afternoon voted not to advance a bill that would establish federal protections for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The procedural measure, which required 60 votes, failed as all but two Republicans present voted against it.

Procedural vote requires 60 votes to advance bill

The bill aimed to make it a right to use reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF). It would have required that federal health plans, the Affordable Care Act, and Medicaid cover these treatments. Military members and veterans would have also gained more access to fertility counseling and treatments.

Democrats introduced the bill, in part, to put Republicans on the record on reproductive rights ahead of November’s elections.

Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) changed his vote to “No” so he would have the option to bring the bill up for another vote in the future.

Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), who support abortion rights, were the sole Republicans to vote to advance the bill.

See how your senators voted in the table below.

Read full bill text for S.4445 Access to Family Building Act . Data from the U.S. Senate . Independent senators Angus King of Maine, Joe Manchin III of West Virginia , Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona caucus with the Democrats.