These 10 States Know How to Have a Good Time — and the Data Proves It
From theme parks and beaches to unbeatable nightlife, these states know how to have a good time.
When it comes to fun, not all states deliver equally. WalletHub analyzed all 50 states across 26 different metrics, including the number of attractions, nightlife options, and even movie ticket costs, to find where life is most entertaining. Analyst Chip Lupo summed it up best: living in one of these states “can boost your mental, physical, and emotional health” thanks to the sheer variety of ways to get out and enjoy yourself.
Here’s where the good times roll in 2025.
10. Oregon
Outdoor lovers thrive here, with hiking, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines that feel straight out of a travel magazine. Portland’s breweries and live-music scene keep the social calendar full, while small towns across the state host everything from art walks to quirky local festivals.
Add in tax-free shopping, mountains made for skiing, and beaches perfect for storm-watching, and Oregon earns its fun-loving reputation year-round.
9. Minnesota
It’s not just “the Land of 10,000 Lakes”, it’s also home to one of the country’s most underrated food scenes and endless outdoor recreation. Minneapolis-St. Paul packs in theaters, comedy clubs, and nightlife, while summer brings lake days and winter turns into a statewide celebration of snow.
Minnesota’s mix of culture and adventure makes it a surprisingly high-energy state for one that spends half the year under ice.
8. Texas
The Lone Star State does everything bigger, including fun. Austin alone could carry the ranking with its music festivals and BBQ culture, but add in Houston’s art scene, San Antonio’s River Walk, and miles of Gulf Coast shoreline, and it’s clear why Texas ranks high.
From two-stepping in a honky-tonk to late-night tacos under neon lights, it’s a place that keeps the party going long after sundown.
7. Washington
Seattle’s coffee shops and live-music roots are just the start. Washington’s combination of coastal islands, national parks, and quirky small towns means there’s always something to do, rain or shine.
Between craft breweries, scenic ferry rides, and some of the best hiking in the country, this Pacific Northwest gem has mastered both nightlife and nature. (This is a great road trip itinerary for Washington if you are thinking of visiting.)
6. Colorado
Fun here starts with altitude… skiing, hiking, and mountain biking in the Rockies never get old. But Colorado’s cities, especially Denver and Boulder, bring the energy after dark with a booming craft-beer scene and year-round festivals. (Here’s a great Denver itinerary for first-time visitors.)
It’s the rare state that balances outdoor adventure and urban buzz, making it a playground for locals and visitors alike.
5. New York
New York City may steal the spotlight, but upstate brings its own kind of excitement — from Niagara Falls to the Adirondacks. Between Broadway, concerts, art museums, and nonstop dining, there’s no shortage of entertainment options.
Even the smaller cities, like Buffalo and Rochester, have upped their cultural game in recent years. Simply put, New York doesn’t know how to be boring.
4. Illinois
Chicago’s live-music venues, museums, and lakefront festivals do the heavy lifting, but Illinois’s smaller towns add charm with local fairs and Route 66 nostalgia.
The nightlife is top-tier, and when you need a break, there’s deep-dish pizza waiting. With both urban energy and Midwest friendliness, Illinois earns its high spot.
3. Nevada
No surprise here! The Silver State lives for entertainment. Las Vegas alone offers world-class nightlife, but Nevada also surprises with its scenic byways, desert hikes, and national parks.
Bars never have to close, festivals run year-round, and it’s one of the cheapest places in the country to grab a beer or a glass of wine. Even outside Vegas, Nevada keeps things lively.
2. Florida
Between the beaches, amusement parks, and endless sunshine, Florida practically built its brand around fun. The state leads the nation in amusement parks and marinas per capita, and it’s no slouch when it comes to dining or nightlife either.
There is far more to do in Florida than just Disney! Whether you’re chasing roller coasters, beach sunsets, or just the next happy hour, Florida delivers.
1. California
From Napa Valley vineyards to Hollywood studios to sunny San Diego, California packs in more ways to play than anywhere else. It tops the list for restaurants, attractions, and scenic byways, with unbeatable access to beaches, national parks, and festivals.
Sure, it’s not the cheapest place for a beer, but you’ll make up for it with endless sunshine and near-perfect weather. There’s a reason people dream of the Golden State. (And San Diego is one of my favorite cities – so much to do there!)
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