Where should you go this fall to have the most fun? WalletHub's rankings might surprise you
Fall is one of the most rewarding times to travel — cooler temperatures, lighter crowds, and if you time it right, landscapes ablaze with crimson and gold. Whether you're chasing foliage, festivals, or fresh air, the question remains: where can you go to maximize the fun without draining your wallet?
WalletHub's 'Most Fun States in America' study offers a data-driven answer. With pure enjoyment in mind, they ranked all 50 states across 26 indicators — from movie ticket prices to national park access to nightlife per capita.
Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer fall road trip, these rankings offer a fresh lens on where to go — and why.
Overall Winners: States That Deliver Across the Board
If you want a destination that checks multiple boxes, these five states top the overall fun rankings:
California: From beaches to mountains, theme parks to wine country, California offers endless variety — and it ranks high in restaurants, performing arts, and outdoor recreation.
Florida: Known for sunshine and theme parks, Florida also scores well in marinas, golf, and nightlife.
Nevada: Las Vegas alone gives Nevada a nightlife edge, but the state also offers desert beauty and quirky roadside attractions.
Illinois: Chicago's cultural scene boosts Illinois in performing arts, restaurants, and entertainment variety.
New York: From Broadway to the Adirondacks, New York blends urban energy with natural escapes.
Nightlife Lovers Rejoice
If your idea of fun includes dancing, live music, or late-night bites, these states shine:
Nevada: No surprise here — Vegas is a nightlife juggernaut.
Illinois: Chicago's bar scene and music venues make it a top contender.
California: LA, San Diego, and San Francisco offer diverse nightlife experiences.
Washington: Seattle's indie music and craft cocktail culture earn it a spot.
Wisconsin: A sleeper hit — college towns and brewery culture give Wisconsin unexpected nightlife appeal.
Foodies, Take Note
Looking for culinary variety? These states rank highest in restaurants per capita:
California: From Michelin stars to taco trucks, the food scene is unmatched.
New York: Global flavors and iconic eats — from bagels to banh mi.
Florida: Seafood, Cuban cuisine, and Southern comfort all shine.
Texas: BBQ, Tex-Mex, and bold flavors make Texas a foodie favorite.
Illinois: Deep-dish pizza and farm-to-table dining elevate the Midwest.
Tee Time and Tranquility
Prefer a slower pace? These states lead in golf courses and country clubs per capita:
Michigan: Scenic fairways and fall foliage make it a golfer's dream.
Iowa: Affordable and accessible courses across the state.
Wisconsin: Home to championship courses and cozy clubhouses.
New York: From Long Island to the Finger Lakes, options abound.
Florida: Year-round play and resort-style amenities.
Arts and Culture Buffs
If you love live performances and cultural experiences, head to:
New York: Broadway, off-Broadway, and everything in between.
California: A rich mix of theater, film, and music festivals.
Minnesota: The Twin Cities boast a surprisingly vibrant arts scene.
Illinois: Chicago's theaters and comedy clubs are world-class.
Florida: From ballet to jazz, the arts are alive statewide.
Skiers and Snow Seekers
Planning ahead for early snow? These states have the most skiing facilities per capita:
Vermont: Quaint towns and powdery slopes make it a fall-to-winter favorite.
Montana: Big sky, big mountains, and uncrowded runs.
Alaska: Rugged and remote — for the truly adventurous.
Colorado: Legendary resorts and high-altitude beauty.
Maine: Small but mighty ski areas with New England charm.
Coastal Escapes and Marina Views
If water is your happy place, these states offer the most marinas per capita:
Florida: Boating, fishing, and waterfront dining galore.
New York: From the Hudson to the Finger Lakes, options abound.
Connecticut: Charming coastal towns and sailing culture.
Maryland: Chesapeake Bay beauty and nautical heritage.
Massachusetts: Cape Cod and beyond — a sailor's paradise.
Nature Lovers and Park Explorers
Want to immerse yourself in the great outdoors? These states offer the best access to national parks:
Alaska: Vast wilderness and jaw-dropping landscapes.
Wyoming: Home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
Montana: Glacier National Park and wide-open spaces.
New Mexico: Desert beauty and ancient ruins.
South Dakota: Badlands, Black Hills, and more.
Variety Is the Spice of Fun
If you want a little bit of everything — arts, entertainment, recreation — these states offer the most variety:
South Dakota: From Mount Rushmore to quirky roadside attractions.
Maine: Lighthouses, lobster, and leaf-peeping.
Minnesota: Lakes, museums, and music festivals.
Michigan: Great Lakes charm and cultural depth.
Vermont: Cozy towns and creative communities.
Smart Ways to Travel More and Spend Less
To help travelers enjoy budget-friendly adventures, WalletHub tapped a panel of experts for tips on maximizing fun without overspending.
Robby Lybrand, Chef Instructor, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management - University of South Carolina, says, 'For those looking to enjoy travel and leisure without breaking the bank, there are several effective strategies. Planning ahead remains one of the most important ways to save money, booking hotels and experiences midweek or in the off-season can result in deep discounts.
Travelers can also explore discount platforms like Groupon, TodayTix, or city tourism cards that bundle attractions. Many communities offer a wealth of free attractions, museums with free days, city-sponsored concerts, public art walks, and state parks provide high-value, low-cost options. Families can also explore youth and amateur sports events, which offer affordable ticket prices and still bring the excitement of competition. With a little creativity, travelers can maximize 'fun density', packing memorable experiences into even a modest budget.'
Where Will Fun Take You This Fall?
Whether you're chasing fall foliage, live music, or a quiet round of golf, WalletHub's rankings offer a roadmap to fun. With a bit of planning — and maybe a few creative detours — you can pack joy, adventure, and affordability into your next trip.
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