Tying the knot on the big day is naturally the most anticipated moment of any wedding, though the celebrations beforehand come in a close second, especially the iconic bachelor and bachelorette parties. Whether it’s throwing a rager or keeping it relaxed, embarking on a wild outdoor adventure or kicking back for a pampering sesh, the destination options to commemorate the lovebirds are endless. For every type of vibe, check out these hot bachelor and bachelorette party locations.
Gone Wild
Best suited for the outdoorsy traveler, take a breath of fresh air in these rugged destinations.
Aspen, Colorado
A relaxed mountain town, Aspen is perfect for the mild partygoer with a taste for outdoor adventure. Of course, the winter months are ideal for classic Colorado activities such as skiing, tubing and snowshoeing. The four resorts — Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Highlands and Snowmass — will be sure to showcase stunning views of snow-dusted mountains and frozen lakes. The warmer months are great for hiking, especially the Maroon Bells, in addition to white-water rafting, mountain biking and listening to live music. Luxury experiences like private wine tastings and wellness retreats will fill the daytime itinerary, while the abundance of nightclubs is sure to keep visitors out late — Escobar and The Sterling are especially popular.
Sedona, Arizona
A rather mellow city, Sedona is good for those seeking a chill atmosphere. Travelers can’t go wrong with a hike at Red Rock State Park, though horseback riding, a hot-air balloon ride or a Jeep tour are other acclaimed options for exploring the area. For wine connoisseurs, the Verde Valley Wine Trail is less than half an hour from Sedona and offers roughly a dozen different wineries and tasting rooms. Soak up the Arizona weather with a golf outing at Sedona Golf Resort or head into the heart of the city for upscale dining and breweries. Late-night clubs and rowdy parties aren’t the scene here, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer a night in.
Lake Tahoe, California
Similar to Aspen, the colder months have no shortage of winter activities — snowmobiling, snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, scenic gondola or tram rides — you name it, they’ve got it. The vibrant blue waters of Lake Tahoe are also the place to be during the warmer months, and as for the party scene, chartering a luxury boat for the day is a splurge well spent. Bask in the glow of a sunset cruise, try your luck at some casual casinos in Stateline or spend the day at Emerald Bay State Park — the versatility in activities is perfect for a wide range of partygoers.
Passport to Party
Kick it up a notch at these famed international party destinations where the wild revelry never ceases.
Ibiza, Spain
Would this even be a party list if Ibiza wasn’t included? For travelers who want to embrace the classic party culture on the island, a bar crawl in Ibiza Town, boat party in the Mediterranean waters or a summer blowout on Ocean Beach will never miss. Be sure to rest up for the evening because super clubs Pacha and Amnesia have guests partying like there’s no tomorrow. While Ibiza is known mainly for its crazy atmosphere, it also offers pockets of relaxation. Take some time to snorkel and explore the native marine life; indulge in a tasty food tour; or wander into Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for majestic views of historic sites.
Prague, Czech Republic
While this city is good for colorful nightlife, by day, there’s plenty of other ways to enjoy the Czech Republic’s capital. Participating in a beer spa is a must, albeit a little strange, as visitors quite literally soak in a tub of bubbling beer. Car smashing, which is exactly as it sounds, could be a great activity to relieve pre-wedding stress, while river cruising, white-water rafting, go-karting and bubble football are other options to let loose and have some unadulterated fun. Roxy, Karlovy Lazne and Cross Club are fan-favorite clubs with eclectic atmospheres, while bars like Anonymous and The Alchemist are known for their laid-back vibes with a themed twist.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Another classic party city, Amsterdam is sure to keep visitors on their toes. Book a beer biking excursion — a pub crawl on a 12-seater bike — for an interesting adventure, explore the city with a paddleboarding trip through the canals; or get a behind-the-scenes look at the production of the country’s famed beer at the Heineken Experience. While there’s loads of good fun to be had during the day, Amsterdam is better known for its rather risqué Red Light District. Where (almost) anything goes, the historic streets and magnificent architecture come alive at night as red hues emanating from windows set the area ablaze and the sultry atmosphere attracts only the most daring travelers.
City Classics
Big cities are good for many things, and epic parties are one of them. Ideal for groups with an array of tastes, these destinations are sure to impress with their versatile offerings.
Chicago, Illinois
A chic, luxe destination, there’s not much you can’t do in the Windy City. Chicago sporting events are consistently a fan-favorite way to kick off a visit to this bustling city, especially with iconic Wrigley Field located here. Among the towering skyscrapers, historic gems of architecture line the Chicago River and present a perfect opportunity for a guided boat tour. Relax at North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach during the summer months or play a round at the Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course, which boasts unbeatable views of Lake Michigan. A variety of country bars, blues clubs and alternative music venues ensure that a night out suits every taste, and a food tour of the city will be sure to satiate even the most outlandish of appetites.
Austin, Texas
Where traditional city landscape meets southern charm, Austin is an up-and-coming bachelor and bachelorette party destination. South Congress Avenue is the city’s main thoroughfare, and there’s an abundance to do with shops, restaurants, bars and live music making up the area. Bask in the glorious Texas weather with a trip out to Devil’s Cove on Lake Travis, where the boats tie onto one another to create a friendly day-party atmosphere, or head back to land and spend the day touring one of Austin’s numerous breweries. Fuel up with a food truck tour of the best BBQ and Tex-Mex around, then head to 6th Street for an evening filled with bumping DJs and live music. For a more relaxed vibe, Rainey Street is another popular stop.
Miami, Florida
Calling all party enthusiasts and warm-weather lovers! Start the trip off right with a visit to South Beach where water-related activities are in abundance — yachts, deep-sea fishing or a speed boat tour are some of the ways to experience the mesmerizing blue waters. For an elevated beach experience, head over to Hyde Beach, where gourmet food and delicious drinks are sure to impress. Of course, Miami wouldn’t have earned its wild party reputation without good reason and with a night out at E11even and Club Space, it’s easy to see why.
Bonus: Off-The-Radar Relaxation
Not all of us are cut out for never-ending parties, fast-paced cities or even intense outdoor adventures, but celebrating the bride and groom is a must. Ideal for the laid-back traveler, these two quaint cities are fun destinations with plenty of relaxation.
Charleston, South Carolina
Known for its well-preserved history, touring the antebellum homes and architecture in downtown Charleston is a unique way to learn about the area’s history and culture. Speaking of which, Rainbow Row is a famous attraction for first-time travelers as the block of pastel-colored, 18th-century homes is a sight to behold. Unwind with a trip out to the popular Folly Beach, where the gentle waves wash over the shore, surf and souvenir shops line the main street and restaurants stretch as far as the eye can see. Visitors should also be sure to stop at one of Charleston’s scenic golf courses before departing, such as the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island or RiverTowne Country Club.
Savannah, Georgia
Offering a similar experience to Charleston, Savannah is shrouded in history. Cathedrals, museums, buildings and homes line the cobblestone streets and provide a glimpse into the charming city’s notorious past. Trolley tours are one way to experience the area, though walking tours are also an option. Visit the famous Broughton or Bull Street for a world-class shopping experience; peruse through Forsyth Park for views of its famous fountain from 1858; or stop on River Street to delight in one of the many award-winning restaurants.
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