The 23 Best Bachelor Party Destinations in America for Every Groom-To-Be

As featured in Men’s Journal, written by Nicholas Hegel McClelland and Ian Centrone.

Location is key when throwing the ultimate bachelor party. These top spots from coast to coast have savvy, fun-seeking ‘wolf pack’ written all over them.

There are plenty of traditions tied to wedding culture in America, but for gentlemen across the nation, none are as coveted as the bachelor party. The practice actually traces back as early as the 5th century B.C., when ancient Spartans would hold a dinner before a man’s upcoming nuptials to toast his honor. Back then, researching the best bachelor party destinations before the big event wasn’t much of an issue. Today, it’s the key decision in a time-honored rite of passage marking the revelrous end of a man’s single years.

Bachelor parties provide the perfect excuse for an unforgettable getaway with the guys. These days, they come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from laid-back tropical escapes to over-the-top exploits that never sleep. Luckily, there’s no shortage of ideas for the perfect spot tailored to a groom’s personal preferences. Here, we’ve gathered 23 of the best bachelor party destinations—from those obvious hotspots to under-the-radar picks—for the ultimate pre-wedding celebration.

Why go: While the Sunshine State is teeming with endless stretches of pristine oceanfront shores, none are as captivating as Florida’s Emerald Coast. Located in the Florida Panhandle, the relaxing region comprises Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island. Overflowing with aquatic adventures, guys can spend their days fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, kayaking in Choctawhatchee Bay, or scuba diving along artificial reefs, shipwrecks, and a limestone shelf that stretches 90 feet deep.

Where to stay: To be smack-dab in the middle of all the action, book a stay at Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village. The sprawling waterfront resort offers four different vacation rental categories and is located in the heart of HarborWalk Village, hosting an impressive lineup of shops, restaurants, and bars that make for a perfect night out on the town.