Looking for the most “fun” place to visit? These states have got a local culture that thrives on recreation and entertainment. WalletHub compared the 50 states across 26 key indicators of a jolly good time that won’t break the bank. They range from movie costs to accessibility of national parks to nightlife options per capita. From mountain hikes to water sports, and fine dining to performing arts, “fun” in all its different forms can be found across these states.
“Living in one of the most fun states can boost your mental, physical and emotional health by giving you a wide range of activities to choose from, both indoor and outdoor. These states help residents stay active and socialize, and they’re also ideal for travelers who want to make the most out of the limited amount of time that they have to explore,” says Cassandra Happe, WalletHub analyst.
If you’re looking for inspiration on where to travel next, here are the most entertaining and fun-filled states you can visit this year:
Texas narrowly missed a top-5 overall spot, coming in at #6. With the most fitness centers, most movie theaters, and most restaurants per capita, it certainly has plenty to offer. Texas also has the most amusement parks per capita—so if you’re looking for an alternative to the theme park-hub that is Orlando, this state would be your best bet.
Alaska came in at a modest 20th overall. But if your definition of fun is being outdoors, this may be your new favorite place. Alaska has the best access to national parks of any state, as well as the most skiing facilities per capita and ranked 13th in Wallethub’s overall entertainment category. Recreation is a huge part of the local culture, as Alaska also ranked first when it came to personal expenditures on recreation services per capita. Other western states such as Wyoming and Montana also rank high when it comes to national park fun.
Finally, while Maine didn’t even make it into the top half in the overall rankings (at #38) it surprisingly did quite well in certain individual categories. The New England state tied for first in number of skiiing facilities as well as marinas—giving you outdoor recreation options for any season!—and also took the top spot for their variety of arts, entertainment, and recreation establishments. While it may be lacking in nightlife, it certainly makes up for in daytime adventures.
Colorado is a great getaway for people who want to have fun outdoors. Visitors can get quick and easy access to the Rocky Mountains with a flight into Denver, plus a short drive. It has the highest state and local expenditures on parks and recreation per capita, ranks second for most personal expenditures on recreation per capita, and ties for the most skiing facilities.
It’s no surprise New York state ranked high for entertainment lovers. New York City helped catapult the Empire State to first place in categories like most restaurants and performing arts venues per capita. The state also took third for most movie theaters, ranked fourth for most golf course and country clubs as well as most fitness centers, and tied for most marinas per capita.
Nevada is the third-most fun state in the country, due in large part to its nightlife. It has the most nightlife activities per capita, including a very high number of music festivals and casinos per capita. For those who like to drink, bars are allowed to stay open 24/7 in Nevada, and the state has the 11th-lowest average beer price and 13th-lowest average wine price.
But having fun in Nevada isn’t all about partying. The Silver State also spends more money per capita on parks and recreation than any other state except three states, and it has the ninth-most acres of national parks. It has the second-best weather in the U.S., too.
Finally, Nevada has the fourth-most attractions per capita, and the 10th-best variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.
California is the second-most fun state in 2024, with an especially large number of restaurants, amusement parks, movie theaters, and fitness centers per capita. It also boasts the second-most attractions per capita overall.
For those who enjoy nightlife, the Golden State has a very high number of performing-arts establishments and music festivals per capita, along with the ninth-best access to bars. And even though California is one of the most expensive states for beer, it’s the sixth-least expensive for wine – likely due to the abundance produced locally.
When it comes to the outdoors, California has the most scenic byways per capita and the sixth-longest ones in the country. It also has the best beach access in the country and the fourth-best weather (at least, when it’s not too hot to go out).
Florida is the most fun state in 2024, leading the country when it comes to the number of restaurants, amusement parks, arcades and music festivals per capita. But even if those particular activities aren’t of interest to you, Florida has the third-most attractions per capita, and the sixth-best variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.
In addition, Florida is a great state for people who like to be outside. Although it does have very hot summers, the state has the 12th-best weather overall. It also has the most marinas per capita and the second-most miles of shoreline.
Finally, the Florida government spends a lot on parks and recreation, the eighth-most per capita. The average Floridian also spends over $2,000 per year on recreation expenses, the 14th-most in the country.