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Study reveals where you should go for a bachelor’s party, without breaking the bank
Wisconsin tops the list, offering a great mix of affordability and fun, with low beer prices and an impressive bar scene.
South Dakota comes in at a close second, excelling in affordability and casino options, making it a solid choice for those seeking a vibrant nightlife experience.
Nevada still shines as a party hotspot with the highest number of clubs and casinos, though its higher beer prices and hotel rates push it down the list.
New York, California, and New Jersey rank at the bottom due to their steep costs, with New York having the priciest hotel stays and California offering the most expensive beer prices.
Planning a bachelor party involves more than just picking a place with a buzzing nightlife, it’s about finding the right mix of fun, affordability, and convenience.
A study conducted by SportsMillions has looked into data on what makes a bachelor party destination truly unforgettable. From beer prices to hotel stays, taxi fares, and food scenes, this research reveals the best states in the U.S. for a bachelor’s weekend getaway.
The Best States for Bachelor Parties
1. Wisconsin – Score: 63.83
Wisconsin takes the crown as the best state for bachelor parties. Not only is the beer affordable at just $4.75 per pint, but the hotel rates are relatively moderate at $255.39 for a two-night stay. The state shines with 18.82 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents, making it an excellent choice for a lively atmosphere. The affordable taxi fare of $6.73 for a 3-mile ride ensures that getting around is easy, while the food scene is vibrant, despite being just outside the top 10 in food-related Instagram hashtags.
2. South Dakota – Score: 63.64
Coming in a close second, South Dakota stands out for its affordable beer prices ($4.50 per pint) and its impressive number of casinos (9.37 per 100,000 residents). Though its hotel rates ($303.16 for two nights) are a bit higher, the overall affordability and mix of entertainment options make it a great choice for those who want a fun, yet budget-friendly bachelor weekend. The slight increase in taxi fares compared to Wisconsin doesn’t hinder its appeal, and its bar scene remains lively with 16.37 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents.
3. Nevada – Score: 61.39
Nevada, with its reputation for wild parties, doesn’t disappoint in the rankings. With 19.25 clubs & bars and 9.28 casinos per 100,000 residents, it’s a prime location for those seeking nonstop entertainment. However, Nevada’s higher beer prices ($6.00 per pint) and average hotel rates ($295.35 for two nights) push it lower on the list compared to more affordable options like Wisconsin. Nonetheless, for those willing to spend a bit more, Nevada offers the most bars and casinos, making it ideal for those who prioritize variety in their nightlife.
4. Montana – Score: 59.19
Montana may not be the first state that comes to mind for a bachelor party, but its unique appeal lies in its combination of relaxation and excitement. With a hotel rating of 8.48 (one of the highest among the top states), the state offers quality accommodations for $413.62 for two nights. While the beer price ($5.00 per pint) and taxi fares ($8.08 for a 3-mile trip) are moderate, Montana’s 17.68 casinos per 100,000 residents provide plenty of entertainment options. This is a great spot for those who want a quieter yet equally fun bachelor party experience.
5. North Dakota – Score: 56.39
North Dakota provides solid value with a relatively low hotel price ($278.71 for two nights) and moderate beer prices ($5.46 per pint). With 15.34 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents, it offers a lively atmosphere, though it doesn’t have as many casinos (2.28 per 100,000 residents) as other states. The affordable taxi fare ($5.02 for a 3-mile ride) and the state’s overall fun yet laid-back vibe make it a great choice for bachelor parties that want to keep things relaxed without sacrificing the essentials.
6. Iowa – Score: 55.33
Iowa offers an affordable option for bachelor parties, with low hotel costs ($235.73 for a two-night stay) and reasonable beer prices ($5.17 per pint). While the state doesn’t have as many clubs and bars (12.41 per 100,000 residents), it makes up for it with a vibrant food scene, evidenced by its 294 foodie hashtags per 100,000 residents. A reasonable taxi fare ($5.04 for a 3-mile trip) adds to its appeal, making Iowa a good option for a quieter but still enjoyable bachelor weekend.
7. Nebraska – Score: 51.36
Nebraska offers good value for those looking for a bachelor party without breaking the bank. While hotel rates ($347.50 for two nights) are on the higher end, the beer price ($5.00 per pint) and taxi fares ($7.41 for a 3-mile ride) are still reasonable. The state’s 12.02 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents offer a solid nightlife scene, though it lacks a strong casino presence (0.70 per 100,000 residents).
8. Vermont – Score: 50.36
Vermont is a unique option for a bachelor party, offering a more laid-back experience with high-quality accommodations ($450.19 for a two-night stay) and the best hotel rating (8.89) among the top 10. While the beer price ($6.17 per pint) and taxi fares ($7.84 for a 3-mile ride) are on the higher side, Vermont shines with its impressive food scene, featuring 1,425 foodie hashtags per 100,000 residents. With fewer clubs and bars (10.19 per 100,000 residents), Vermont is perfect for those who want to balance fun with a relaxed atmosphere.
9. West Virginia – Score: 47.88
West Virginia is an affordable option with a low beer price ($4.25 per pint) and reasonable taxi fare ($5.34 for a 3-mile trip). However, the state’s limited nightlife (4.30 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents) and lack of a strong casino presence (0.57 per 100,000 residents) make it a less exciting choice compared to other states. Despite its affordable accommodations ($289.80 for two nights), West Virginia is better suited for a more low-key bachelor party experience.
10. Louisiana – Score: 47.71
Louisiana rounds out the top 10 with an affordable hotel price ($231.12 for two nights) and beer price ($5.33 per pint). While the state’s nightlife is more limited (12.04 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents), it compensates with its rich culture and food scene, boasting 272 foodie hashtags per 100,000 residents. Louisiana offers a relaxed, culturally rich bachelor party atmosphere, though the $5.80 taxi fare for a 3-mile trip and moderate nightlife make it a quieter destination.
The Worst States for Bachelor Parties
48. New York – Score: 25.46
New York may be the city that never sleeps, but it’s also the most expensive place for a bachelor party. With a staggering hotel price of $736.81 for two nights and beer prices at $7.25 per pint, the costs can quickly add up. Though New York offers plenty of nightlife with 9.55 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents, the high costs make it an impractical choice for those looking to keep their party on budget.
49. California – Score: 24.38
California ranks low due to its steep costs. With hotel prices averaging $338.39 for two nights and beer prices hitting $8.58 per pint, the state’s affordability takes a hit. While the nightlife isn’t as sparse as in other states (6.54 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents), the overall expense of partying in California outweighs its entertainment offerings.
50. New Jersey – Score: 21.26
New Jersey rounds out the bottom of the list with some of the highest costs. Hotel rates average $338.13 for two nights, and beer prices sit at $6.83 per pint. With limited nightlife options (4.98 clubs & bars per 100,000 residents) and high taxi fares ($7.49 for a 3-mile trip), New Jersey fails to deliver the affordable fun many seek for a bachelor party.
