A recent study by WalletHub ranked the most, and least, fun states in America based on a few different variables.
To develop its rankings, WalletHub took stock of different states’ variety and cost-effectiveness for fun activities. The study measured 26 metrics, including number of attractions; variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments; restaurants per capita; amusement parks per capita; golf courses and country clubs per capita; and more.
The study breaks the findings down into two categories, entertainment and recreation and nightlife. Once each metric was measured for all 50 states, the states were ranked in order of highest to lowest scores. The results are based on a 100-point scale.
California, Florida and New York take the first three spots. The three lowest-ranking states are Delaware, Mississippi and West Virginia.
California, New York, Florida and Texas tie for first place in terms of most restaurants per capita. North Dakota has the fewest. Michigan has the most golf courses and country clubs per capita with 11 times more than Alaska, with the fewest.
The study also includes marinas per capita, skiing facilities per capita and access to natural parks in its rankings. Read the full study online.
Where does your state rank in terms of fun? Do you agree with its ranking, and how many top states have you traveled to? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Sep 25, 2026Why Lake Placid Belongs on Every Holiday Travel List
Lake Placid, New York, should be on your winter travel radar. With its snow-covered Adirondack peaks, charming Main Street and winter traditions, the destination creates a sense of nostalgic holiday fun.
Sponsored Content
What Actually Happens If You Get Sick or Hurt on a Cruise?
You’ve booked your cabin, mapped the ports and packed the sunscreen. Hopefully, you also bought some insurance. But have you ever thought about what actually happens if a medical emergency strikes mid-voyage?
Daily
Sep 25, 2026New Branding for Luxury Palace Cairo Hotel
One of Kempinski’s most distinctive palace hotels, the Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, has just been rebranded as Kempinski Palace Cairo. Conveniently and centrally positioned in New Cairo, this 5-star property combines classic European elegance with the hospitality for which Egypt is recognized. Offering 245 swish rooms and suites, The Palace Spa by Resense, expansive event spaces, and a selection of culinary experiences, the hotel provides guest with a serene base that’s just 15 minutes from Cairo International Airport.
Daily
Sep 25, 2026Orient Express Sailing Yachts Announces Ocean Rebirth Wellness Retreat with Guerlain
Oct. 12–26, 2026, Orient Express Sailing Yachts and Guerlain welcome guests to an immersive journey with Ocean Rebirth, a fourteen-night wellness retreat aboard Orient Express Corinthian.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Moments, Made to Keep
The Excellence Collection offers a curated collection of luxurious resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, promising exceptional experiences for every guest and taste. From upscale suite concepts to a plethora of gourmet dining options, from wellness experiences to curated activities, The Excellence Collection guarantees all this and more.
Daily
Sep 24, 2026Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Adds New Amenities, Programming
Opened in early 2026, Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove continues its momentous year with newly added amenities and programming. Located in one of California’s most charming and culturally rich coastal towns, the hotel brought a new luxury lifestyle offering and a fresh spirit to the Monterey Peninsula.
4 Ways to Spend a Weekend in Cleveland, Ohio
Daily
Sep 23, 2026Review: Sage Lodge Resort & Spa
eFlyer Reviews
Sep 23, 2026Airlines
Sep 23, 2026American Airlines, Condor Airlines Announce New Interline Agreement
American Airlines and Condor Airlines expand their international partner network with a new interline agreement, providing travelers with a wide range of new connections. Passengers can expect connections to more than 150 cities through Condor’s trans-Atlantic gateways in major hubs like JFK, BOS and LAX.
Sponsored Content
Global Traveler Hosted Trip on the Transcend Connect
JOIN GLOBAL TRAVELER ON ITS NEXT TRIP!
eFlyer News
Sep 23, 2026Amex to Open First Centurion Lounge in Continental Europe at Amsterdam Schiphol
American Express officially became the first global credit card company to operate a lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The brand’s Centurion Lounge opened at AMS Sept. 17, spanning nearly 6,000 square feet and offering a plethora of amenities.



ShareThis