A new study has revealed that St. Louis, Missouri, is the best city in the United States for a bachelor party—outside of Las Vegas—thanks to a combination of affordable travel, ample dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The study, conducted by Hudson Reporter, analyzed nine key factors across various cities, including nightlife attractions, the availability of restaurants, and the affordability of travel. The findings highlight that three Florida cities—Orlando, Tampa, and Miami—made it into the top 10 bachelor party destinations, alongside cities like St. Louis, New Orleans, and Scottsdale.
St. Louis Tops the List
St. Louis, Missouri, claims the number one spot with an overall score of 71.69 out of 100, excelling in several key areas that make it an ideal destination for bachelor parties. The city earned a perfect score of 10 for its restaurant density, offering the highest number of restaurants per 100,000 people in the country—944 to be exact. St. Louis also shines when it comes to travel costs, with an average price of just $241.59, which ranks it first in affordability. With an average hotel rate of $198.36 per night, the city provides an excellent value for those looking to celebrate without breaking the bank.
New Orleans: A Hot Spot for Nightlife
In second place is New Orleans, Louisiana, with an overall score of 70.61. Known for its legendary nightlife, the city boasts 280 nightlife attractions—equating to 76 per 100,000 people—earning it a perfect score of 10 in this category. New Orleans also scores highly in the casino category, offering an array of gambling options. However, it does have the second-highest average travel price on the list at $253.90, earning it a score of 9.7 in the affordability index. The city’s lively atmosphere, rich history, and mix of cultural experiences make it a prime choice for a memorable bachelor celebration.
Scottsdale: The Casino Capital
Scottsdale, Arizona, ranks third with a score of 68.84. This city stands out for its abundance of casinos, with 20.57 casinos per million people, earning it a perfect score of 10 in that category. Scottsdale is also known for its luxurious resorts, lively nightlife, and vibrant bar scene, making it a popular choice for bachelor parties. The average travel price in Scottsdale is higher at $275.64, which results in a respectable score of 9.17. Despite its higher costs, Scottsdale remains a top destination thanks to its exciting entertainment options and high-end accommodations.
Florida’s Strong Representation
Florida boasts three cities in the top 10, showcasing the state’s appeal as a bachelor party destination.
Orlando, ranking fourth, offers a high density of restaurants and some of the most affordable hotels on the list, with an average hotel price of $198.13. It also has a solid score for nightlife and offers a variety of theme parks and entertainment options, making it ideal for groups looking for both relaxation and adventure.
Tampa, in sixth place, ranks highly in casino availability, with 8.78 casinos per million people. While its nightlife isn’t as intense as some of the other top cities, it compensates with a mix of outdoor activities and a more laid-back atmosphere. Tampa also offers reasonable travel costs, with an average price of $245.27, making it an attractive destination for groups looking for fun without the high costs of larger cities.
Miami, ranking eighth, offers a balance of upscale dining, vibrant nightlife, and a thriving casino scene. While the city has slightly higher average travel prices at $270.56, Miami’s beautiful beaches, international flair, and endless party opportunities make it a classic bachelor party destination.
Other Notable Cities
Other cities in the top 10 include Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Lexington, and Portland. Each of these cities offers unique experiences that cater to different tastes. Cincinnati stands out with affordable travel prices, while Pittsburgh’s nightlife and restaurant scenes help it land in the top ranks.
According to Nabil Ansari, VP of Outreach & Acquisitions at Hudson Reporter, the study offers valuable insights for those planning a bachelor party. “This data highlights a range of cities with unique attractions and diverse experiences,” Ansari commented. “Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife or a more relaxed setting, this list can help you find the perfect spot tailored to your celebration needs.”
Whether you’re seeking a lively, party-centric atmosphere or a more laid-back celebration with plenty of dining and entertainment options, these cities provide the ideal mix for an unforgettable bachelor party experience. With affordable travel and a variety of attractions, St. Louis, New Orleans, and the Florida cities of Orlando, Tampa, and Miami are leading the charge as top bachelor party destinations outside of Las Vegas.
Source:
- Data sourced from TripAdvisor, Rome2Rio and Booking.com