Bachelorette weekends can be a lot of fun — when they're done right. Whether you're the bride or the maid of honor, if you're in charge of planning, it’s your responsibility to remember that your squad is chipping in time and money. So your bash should be somewhere that feels suitable for the whole team.
And while you could head to typical spots like Las Vegas or Miami, why not go for something a little more unexpected? Ahead, we've got 10 ideas for destination bachelorette parties that you probably haven't considered — but should.
Solvang, CA
In the mountains east of the Santa Barbara coastline, there is a small town called Solvang, a Danish-replica village complete with windmills. The town, which feels straight out of Disneyland’s “Small World” ride, is in the heart of wine country, so you can check out the nearby wineries while enjoying the homespun kitsch.
Solvang is remote and unique enough to feel like a distant getaway, but in reality it’s only a two-hour drive from L.A., and there are plenty of modern amenities to enjoy. Book a few rooms at chic boutique hotel The Landsby, which has an excellent local wine list in its lobby bar. And if you decide to up the ante on relaxation, head to Spa Élan in nearby Los Olivos before your tour of the wineries.
Photo: Getty Images.
Niagara Falls, NY
You can head to Niagara Falls for the actual falls, but that’s only a quick boat trip, and will give you plenty of time to plan a series of fun activities to keep the group busy over the weekend. The Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino offers gambling, bars, and the possibility of an endless buffet, while the Niagara Wine Trail boasts a series of small wineries.
Most of the local hotels are big chains (except for the ornate boutique property The Giacomo), so consider renting a house on Airbnb for your crew. Need something more low-key to do during your stay? Niagara Falls also has a massive outlet mall.
Photo: Getty Images.
Mexico City
Sure, you could head for one of Mexico’s many beach resorts, where the bottom-shelf liquor will be flowing freely. But you’re cooler than that, which is why you’re taking your squad to Mexico City, the cultural and culinary hub of Mexico, where the margaritas are far more legit than at Señor Frogs in Cancún.
Hotels are inexpensive, so you can shack up in a lux one like the W Mexico City or seek out a funky boutique property like Hotel Habita. When you’re ready to party, the city has a ton of cool cocktail bars worth checking out, like speakeasy Jules Basement and the literary-inspired Salinger.
Photo: Getty Images.
Louisville, KY
Do you like bourbon? Do your friends like bourbon? (If not, you might need some new friends.) If so, Louisville is the exact right destination for your bachelorette festivities. Before you hit the distilleries and bars, though, book a block of seats at the city’s AAA baseball stadium to catch a game and pay a visit to Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby, where you might be able to watch a race.
Score some rooms at the chic, artsy 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, which has its own art collection, and plan a celebratory dinner at the Mayan Café or Jack Fry’s. Now for the bourbon: Start at Haymarket Whiskey Bar, move on to Bourbons Bistro, and end your night at Proof On Main (which is, luckily, adjacent to your hotel).
Photo: Getty Images.
Marfa, TX
The population of Marfa is less than 2,000, so consider this a destination for bridal parties who want to try something more relaxed. The town, a three-hour drive from El Paso, is best known for its art galleries and installations, which include the must-visit Chinati Foundation and iconic Prada Marfa (a 37-mile drive outside of downtown). The town itself is low-key, centered in the middle of the desert, and the amenities are simple.
Pick a historic hotel like the Hotel Paisano or a newer contemporary property like Hotel Saint George as your home base. In the evening, check out the Capri, which has outdoor fire pits, or relaxed bar Planet Marfa. Let’s be honest, though, you’re really here for that priceless photo in front of the middle-of-the-desert Prada store.
Photo: Getty Images.
Bozeman, MT
If your crew is looking for an outdoor adventure, Bozeman, MT, is a good choice — especially during the warmer months. The city, nearby to Yellowstone National Park, can be a base for all kinds of activities, like whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
You can elect to camp or book a room in town (try hip hotel The Lark). Even though Bozeman may look like a quaint mountain city, its nightlife also packs a punch. Stop by the Bozeman Spirits Distillery for a tasting, and check out the craft beers at the White Dog Brewing Company. End your night at the Zebra Cocktail Lounge, a late-night bar with plenty of dancing (and a weekly ladies' night).
Photo: Getty Images.
Dublin, Ireland
If anyone knows how to celebrate, it’s the Irish. Dublin requires some commitment in terms of planning, but once you get there, you and your posse can head straight to the nearest pub and start downing Guinness. There are tons of hotels to pick from (look into centrally located boutique hotel The Brooks), but an Airbnb might be your best option for housing everyone inexpensively in the middle of the city.
While you’re obviously there to party, make sure to take some time to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the National Museum of Ireland. Once you have your culture fix, head to the Guinness Storehouse for drinks at the rooftop bar, and then grab some pints at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, which features live music nightly.
Photo: Getty Images.
Havana, Cuba
Cuba has recently become a possible destination for Americans, with several airlines now offering direct flights to Havana. If you’re interested in experiencing and exploring a new culture over your bachelorette weekend, Havana is a great foreign option that is reasonably priced. There are some decent hotel choices in the city, but you’ll be better off booking an Airbnb property that can house your entire group.
You can opt for beach hangs or strolling through the city’s various neighborhoods during the day, and dance the night away at hot spot La Casa de la Música, known for its salsa and merengue. And, of course, you’ll need to sidle up to the bar at El Floridita for the infamous daiquiris. It’s an unconventional choice for a bachelorette party, but it’s also one that your friends will be trying to outdo for years to come.
Photo: Getty Images.
Martha's Vineyard, MA
Cape Cod is a classic weekend destination, and if you’re looking to create a bachelorette weekend that rivals Taylor Swift’s Fourth of July parties, then Martha's Vineyard is the perfect pick. Rent a house near the beach (don’t worry that Jaws was filmed there) and stock up on things to grill and drink.
This is not a destination where you’re going to need to do much: Just hang out in the sun, pour rosé, and play party games. If you want to go out, grab a meal at The Red Cat Kitchen or Offshore Ale House, which offers one of the best lobster rolls on the island. It’s not mandatory that your crew all don matching Vineyard Vines shirts, but it will look good on Instagram.
Photo: Getty Images.
Memphis, TN
Sure, you could head to Nashville to get your fill of Southern music and soul food, but been there, done that. Instead, opt for the buzzing metropolis of Memphis, where you can imbibe, check out amazing live music, and dance the night away. There’s a massive array of cool bars in town, but try cocktail joint Alchemy or the historic Mollie Fontaine Lounge, which is set in an old mansion.
If live music is your jam, try the raucous Wild Bill’s or Hi Tone. Alternatively, if you want to get the vibe of the city but feel like getting away from it all for the weekend, book a room (err, shack) at the Shack Up Inn in the nearby town of Clarksdale. The historic property, with its rock-‘n’-roll vibe, is the perfect place to treat yourselves to some rustic R&R — and a lot of beer.
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