Ranking the States by Fun: Summer Travel Edition
Looking for a summer full of excitement without needing a passport? We ranked all 50 states from least to most fun based on nightlife, outdoor activities, quirky roadside stops, local festivals, foodie scenes, and just plain weird stuff to do.
Whether you’re a beach bum, mountain hiker, party hopper, or museum nerd, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into the ultimate US fun ranking — no boring allowed.
#50 – Mississippi: Slow & Low, but Not the Party Kind
Mississippi might be full of Southern charm, but when it comes to high-energy fun, it’s more porch-sittin’ than party-rockin’. That said, it’s perfect if you like things slow and soulful. Dive into blues history or take a riverboat cruise. For a surprisingly cool day trip, check out the B.B. King Museum in Indianola.
Bill Golladay, Wikimedia Commons
#49 – Alabama: Roll Tide and... Roll to Bed Early?
Alabama has its moments, but it’s not exactly the fun capital of America. Sure, you’ll find great barbecue and college football tailgates, but things tend to quiet down fast. Still, outdoor lovers can enjoy kayaking and scenic trails. Try the US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville for a stellar experience.
#48 – Nebraska: Cornfields and... More Cornfields
No shade, but Nebraska is pretty flat — literally and in terms of nightlife. If your idea of fun involves tractor pulls and fireflies, you’ll have a grand time. But don’t sleep on the quirky stuff. Head to Carhenge in Alliance, a Stonehenge replica made of cars. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it’s awesome.
#47 – West Virginia: Wild and (Mostly) Wonderful
West Virginia is a stunner when it comes to natural beauty — but it’s not exactly teeming with festivals or clubs. It’s more for zip-lining, hiking, and ghost towns than bar-hopping. If you're into the outdoors, check out the New River Gorge Bridge Walk. It’s both thrilling and Instagram-worthy.
Donnie Nunley, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
#46 – Kansas: Where the Sky Never Ends
Kansas is all about the wide-open plains, and while that can be beautiful, it’s not a thrill-seeker’s paradise. But don’t count it out — there’s charm in the small towns and a weirdly fun roadside culture. Don’t miss the World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City. It’s... impressively pointless.
TigerPaw2154, Wikimedia Commons
#45 – Delaware: Blink and You Might Miss It
Tiny but mighty? Not exactly. Delaware has beaches and breweries, but the fun is on the mellow side. It’s more of a chill weekend getaway than a summer blowout. That said, Rehoboth Beach has arcades, boardwalk fries, and some sneaky-fun nightlife if you know where to look.
Dough4872, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
#44 – Iowa: Corn, Comfort, and County Fairs
Iowa is the county fair capital of America, and honestly, that’s kind of fun. Deep-fried everything, tractor pulls, butter sculptures — it’s a whole vibe. The rest of the time? Pretty laid-back. For peak Iowa summer, hit the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines. Come hungry and leave... slightly weirded out.
#43 – Arkansas: Nature’s Hidden Playground
Arkansas isn’t a major party destination, but it’s got tons of underrated nature. Hot springs, caves, lakes — you just have to dig a little. If you’re more into chill adventure than rowdy nights, it’s a solid bet. Be sure to soak in Hot Springs National Park, basically a spa disguised as a national treasure.
#42 – North Dakota: Quiet, Quirky, and Surprisingly Cool
North Dakota might not scream “fun!” but if you’re into wide-open spaces, quirky roadside stops, and chill vibes, it’s worth a look. Plus, summer weather is actually perfect. Don’t miss The Enchanted Highway, a stretch of road filled with gigantic metal sculptures. Weird? Yes. Fun? Also yes.
Skvader, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
#41 – Indiana: Racing Toward a Good Time
It’s not a thrill ride year-round, but when Indy 500 season rolls around, Indiana knows how to throw a party. The rest of the time, expect chill college towns and some cool outdoor adventures. While you’re there, check out Holiday World, a retro amusement park with free soft drinks. Seriously.
Jeremy Thompson, Wikimedia Commons
#40 – South Dakota: Monuments and Motorcycle Mayhem
South Dakota has a surprisingly edgy side — especially during Sturgis Bike Week. Between majestic landscapes and motorcycle mania, there’s more here than you’d expect. And you can’t skip the iconic Mount Rushmore, whether you’re on a road trip or riding a Harley.
ExploringandLiving, Adobe Stock
#39 – Rhode Island: Small State, Big Beach Energy
It’s the smallest state, but that just means everything fun is closer together. From scenic beaches to chill seafood shacks, Rhode Island’s got laid-back coastal charm. Cruise down Ocean Drive in Newport and pretend you’re in a music video.
The original uploader was Thomsonsr at English Wikipedia., Wikimedia Commons
#38 – Kentucky: Bourbon, Horses, and Cave Parties
Kentucky brings strong summer vibes for horse lovers and bourbon sippers alike. But the real surprise? You can party underground in Mammoth Cave, the longest cave system in the world. Add in music festivals and derby hats, and you’re good to go.
#37 – Vermont: Maple Syrup and Mountain Magic
Vermont is like a summer postcard — charming towns, killer hikes, and serious farmers’ market energy. It’s perfect for those who prefer artisan cheese over clubbing. Don’t miss the view from Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
Kyle Soeltz, Wikimedia Commons
#36 – Maine: Lobsters, Lighthouses, and Quirky Quietude
Maine is pure New England magic. Think: breezy seaport towns, puffin cruises, and lighthouses galore. It’s not high-speed fun, but it’s dreamy and delicious. Try the lobster roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset — just be prepared to wait in line.
WestportWiki, Wikimedia Commons
#35 – Alaska: Ice, Isolation, and Insane Views
Alaska is a choose-your-own-adventure book come to life. From glacier hikes to whale watching, this place is wild — literally. And in the summer, the sun basically never sets. Go gold panning or zip-line past glaciers in Juneau.
#34 – Montana: Big Sky Fun (As Long As You Like Nature)
Montana is for people who prefer “fun” in the form of fishing, rafting, and sipping craft beer on a mountaintop. It’s peaceful and kind of epic. Hit up Glacier National Park for jaw-dropping views and total main-character energy.
#33 – Wyoming: Rodeos, Geysers, and Ghost Towns
If cowboy culture and geothermal chaos are your thing, Wyoming delivers. Between Yellowstone’s exploding geysers and the rowdy rodeos of Cheyenne, you’ll stay entertained — just maybe not in a dance-club way.
#32 – Idaho: Potatoes and Paddleboards
Yes, Idaho has potatoes, but it also has rivers, hot springs, and surprisingly rad downtowns. Boise is full of cool breweries and live music. Plus, summer festivals and float trips make it one big outdoor hangout.
#31 – Oklahoma: Cowboys and Cosmic Surprises
Oklahoma brings that Route 66 retro fun, with a side of alien lore and college-town energy. For something unforgettable, visit the Center of the Universe in Tulsa, where your voice echoes weirdly back to you. It’s trippy.
The Mystery Of The Center Of The Universe, KJRH -TV | Tulsa | Channel 2
#30 – Pennsylvania: History, Hershey, and Hidden Gems
Pennsylvania balances old-school charm with a ton of quirky fun. Explore battlefields one day, and scream your face off at Hersheypark the next. It’s part chocolate factory, part amusement park — and yes, it smells like candy.
#29 – New Hampshire: Hikes, History, and Craft Beer
New Hampshire is outdoorsy in all the right ways — think whitewater rafting by day and campfire beers by night. It’s also full of charming little towns with indie shops and dive bars. Hike to the top of Mount Washington for stunning views (and a wind-swept selfie).
Harvey Barrison, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
#28 – Wisconsin: Beer, Brats, and Summer Fests
Wisconsin knows how to throw a summer bash — especially if cheese and music are involved. Milwaukee’s Summerfest is one of the biggest music festivals in the world, and beer gardens pop up everywhere. Bonus: lakes everywhere = excellent float life.
#27 – Minnesota: 10,000 Lakes, and At Least That Many Parties
The Land of 10,000 Lakes comes alive in the summer. From paddleboarding and outdoor concerts to small-town festivals, Minnesotans know how to make the most of the sun. Hang at Lake Minnetonka for boating, jet skiing, and low-key luxury.
Tony Webster from Portland, Oregon, United States, Wikimedia Commons
#26 – North Carolina: Mountains, Music, and Moonshine
North Carolina’s blend of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty and Outer Banks beach chill is next-level. Asheville has craft breweries, street art, and weirdly awesome energy. For a summer must-do, head to Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide in the mountains.
#25 – Michigan: Lakeside Lounging and Late-Night Lights
Michigan’s Great Lakes are basically inland oceans, and that means epic summer beach vibes. There are also forest hikes, lighthouse tours, and dune sledding. Yep, that’s a thing. Don’t miss a sunset over Sleeping Bear Dunes — it’s magic.
#24 – Georgia: Southern Hospitality with a Side of Hype
Georgia mixes big-city fun with country road charm. Atlanta’s music and nightlife are fire, but Savannah’s haunted pubs and oak-shaded streets are a vibe. Take a lazy summer float down the Chattahoochee River — bonus points for bringing snacks.
Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee), Wikimedia Commons
#23 – Missouri: From Arches to Amusement Parks
Missouri’s got city life in St. Louis and nature in the Ozarks, plus a surprisingly strong theme park game. Silver Dollar City in Branson brings old-timey thrills with actual rollercoasters. It’s cheesy, chaotic, and totally worth it.
#22 – Nevada: Vegas, Aliens, and Midnight Mayhem
Sure, Nevada is basically “Vegas and vibes,” but don’t forget the alien-centric stops on the Extraterrestrial Highway, desert art installations like Seven Magic Mountains, and late-night food you’ll regret in the best way. Stay hydrated, party people.
Gabbybratcher, Wikimedia Commons
#21 – New Mexico: Art, Aliens, and Adobe Fun
Where else can you tour a cave, eat green chile everything, and visit Roswell’s UFO Museum in the same day? New Mexico’s colorful desert towns and thriving art scenes make it a one-of-a-kind road trip stop.
#20 – Texas: Big Fun, Big State, Big Summer
Texas does it all — rooftop tacos in Austin, river tubing in New Braunfels, two-stepping in Fort Worth, and stargazing in West Texas. And food? Next level. For a classic summer stop, float the Guadalupe River with a cold drink in hand.
Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
#19 – Colorado: High Times and Hot Springs
Colorado is a dream for adventure junkies and stoner sun-seekers alike. Hike a 14er, then hit a brewery or natural hot spring. Don’t miss Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, where you can soak with mountain views and chill vibes.
#18 – Virginia: Beaches, History, and Breweries
Virginia sneaks in a lot of fun between its history lessons. Spend a day at Virginia Beach, stroll the boardwalk, rent a jet ski, or just chill in the sun. Craft breweries and summer festivals round out the good-time vibes.
#17 – Connecticut: Classy Fun on the Coast
Connecticut’s like your preppy friend who secretly parties. Coastal towns like Mystic serve up fresh seafood and summer sails, while cities bring live music and brewery hopping. Go full movie-scene with a sunset sail in Mystic Harbor.
Juliancolton, Wikimedia Commons
#16 – Illinois: Big City, Bigger Laughs
Chicago basically carries the fun here, but what a carry. Rooftop bars, lakefront festivals, and deep-dish-fueled night walks? Yes, please. For major summer vibes, catch a show at Millennium Park — music, skyline views, and the Bean, of course.
#15 – Washington: Mountains, Music, and Mochas
Seattle’s grunge roots and misty mornings make way for sunny park concerts, ferry rides, and waterfront eats in the summer. Add some national parks and espresso pit stops, and you’re golden. Spend a day hiking at Mount Rainier.
Ian Dewar Photography, Shutterstock
#14 – Oregon: Keep Portland — and Your Vacation — Weird
Oregon’s summer fun goes from quirky Portland donut tours to waterfall hikes and coast drives. Grab a weird souvenir at a roadside shop, then cool off in the Columbia River Gorge. There’s no rule against doing both in one day.
#13 – South Carolina: Southern Charm with a Splash
Charleston’s pastel houses and rooftop bars are pure summer energy, while Myrtle Beach brings boardwalk chaos and ocean waves. Add in swamps, seafood, and a few ghost stories, and you’ve got a good time cocktail.
#12 – Arizona: Canyons, Cacti, and Cosmic Coolness
Yes, it’s hot. But Arizona makes up for it with stunning landscapes, art towns, and the legendary Grand Canyon. Head to Sedona for a weird mix of vortexes, crystal shops, and red rock hikes that totally feel like Mars.
Islander61, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
#11 – Louisiana: Beads, Brass, and Beignets
Mardi Gras might be in spring, but New Orleans doesn’t stop partying in the summer. Brass bands, jazz brunches, swamp tours — it’s all happening. Don’t leave without getting beignets at Café du Monde (preferably at midnight).
MusikAnimal, Wikimedia Commons
#10 – Massachusetts: Smart Fun with a Wicked Accent
Boston’s a summer blast, especially with its harbor cruises and ballgames at Fenway. But the coast is where things really shine. Spend a weekend on Cape Cod biking trails and beaches. Wicked fun, kid.
Gregg Squeglia, CC-BY-SA-4.0, Wikimedia Commons
#9 – New Jersey: Boardwalks, Beaches, and Bonus Weirdness
Jersey brings vintage beach town energy and actual nightlife. Asbury Park is full of music, bars, and retro charm, while the rest of the Shore keeps things classic — saltwater taffy, wild rides, and shore snacks.
#8 – Hawaii: Tropics, Tikis, and Turtles
Hawaii is just... paradise. Volcano hikes, late-night luaus, waterfall swims, and fish tacos on the beach. Whether you’re chilling in Waikiki or road-tripping the Hana Highway, it’s basically a screensaver come to life.
293.xx.xxx.xx, Wikimedia Commons
#7 – Alaska: Where Summer Sun Never Sets (Seriously)
Alaska in summer means nearly endless daylight, perfect for doing the most. Hike, boat, fish, explore glaciers — repeat. Head to Denali National Park for an epic view of North America’s tallest peak. Nature doesn’t get bigger than this.
National Parks Gallery, Picryl
#6 – Florida: From Swamps to Space to South Beach
Florida is a fever dream in the best way. Miami clubs, Disney parks, rocket launches, gator tours — it’s nonstop chaos. Cool off at Wekiwa Springs State Park near Orlando, a hidden local gem for swimming and kayaking.
Mwanner at en.wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons
#5 – Nevada: Vegas, Baby (and More!)
Sure, the Strip never sleeps, but Nevada has more than just blackjack tables. Check out Lake Tahoe for wild scenic beauty or the weirdly wonderful madness of Burning Man in Black Rock Desert. Glitter optional.
Aaron Muszalski, Wikimedia Commons
#4 – Washington: Rain, Nature, and Neon Nights
Seattle’s got summer glow-ups with waterfront concerts, mountain escapes, and buzzy nightlife. Spend a day at Pike Place Market, then catch a rooftop sunset. Add a national park and you’ve got it all.
#3 – Illinois: Chicago-Style Shenanigans
Summer in Chicago is next-level. Lakefront biking, rooftop bars, comedy shows, food fests — pick your vibe. Head to Navy Pier for rides, fireworks, and late-night snacks. It's big city fun with Midwest warmth.
#2 – New York: Lights, Legends, and Late-Night Fun
From upstate waterfalls to NYC rooftop bars, New York has a summer menu for every kind of fun. Catch a Broadway show, explore the Adirondacks, or picnic in Central Park before dancing under the stars.
#1 – California: Surf, Stars, and Summer Dreams
California wins by doing everything — beaches, deserts, wine country, national parks, nightlife, tacos, theme parks, and ocean cliff drives. One day you’re surfing, the next you’re snowboarding. For peak Cali summer vibes, road trip the Pacific Coast Highway. Windows down, playlist up.
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