What were the most fun cities in America this year?

(NewsNation) — Americans sure love to travel, and they did plenty of it this past year.

Now, a lot of that travel was for fun and leisure, especially for major cities across the country.

So, as the year comes to an end, which ten U.S. cities were ranked the most fun to experience in 2025?

10. Cincinnati, Ohio

Long exposure along the Ohio River facing the colorful night skyline of Cincinnati.

Rounding out the top 10 on the list is Cincinnati.

WalletHub.com ranked “The Queen City” in the top 20 for both entertainment/recreation and nightlife/parties.

“From record-holding roller coasters to some of the most culturally significant museums, Cincinnati’s entertainment scene is full of adventures and experiences you can’t find anywhere else,” Cincinnati Experience said.

Some of Cincinnati’s best attractions include the Cincinnati Observatory, Krohn Conservatory, Kings Island, Land of Illusion, American Sign Museum and the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Tourists looking to check out the arts scene can hit up the Taft Museum of Art and Cincinnati Art Museum. For sporting events, they can take in a Cincinnati Bengals or Cincinnati Reds game.

9. Portland, Oregon

Skyline of Portland, Oregon, USA at dusk, with Willamette River and Hawthorne Bridge.

Portland, Oregon, ranks ninth on the list.

Dubbed the “City of Roses,” Portland is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and party scene, with Walletclub ranking it #9 nationwide.

“Nightlife in Portland doesn’t mean just hitting the club,” says Travel Portland. “Portland comes to life after hours with open mic nights held throughout the city, nationally acclaimed karaoke spots, delicious late-night eats, adult-friendly gaming spots and plenty of alcohol-free fun.”

Beyond the clubs from Old Town Chinatown to Dixie Tavern, Portland also boasts an underrated entertainment and recreation scene. The city is known for its classic arcades (Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade and Bar, Funhouse Lounge), OSMI (Portland’s Interactive Science Museum), and the live music venues (Moda Center and Revolution Hall).

8. Austin, Texas

Coming in at number eight is Austin, Texas.

The capital city of the state isn’t an attraction-filled spot, but it’s right up any tourist’s alley looking for a party or good time.

“With vibrant entertainment, art and culture, inspiring cuisine and stunning outdoor experiences, Austin lets you create a soundtrack all your own,” states Visit Austin.

Nicknamed the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin boasts a ton of music festivals year-round, and people wanting to get their concert fix in can head to Antone’s Nightclub, Continental Club, The Saxon Pub and the Elephant Room.

7. San Francisco, California

An aerial view of the Transamerica Building as seen from a helicopter.

The “City By the Bay” is the next city on WalletHub’s rankings.

San Francisco ranks in the top five places for entertainment and nightlife for travelers.

“San Francisco is a city for the bold; the creative; the loud, proud, and iconoclastic,” says SFTravel.com. “No matter when you visit, there will be events happening across the city that offer you the chance to unleash your inner San Franciscan.”

San Francisco is notorious for its attractions. From being able to visit Alcatraz, taking in the de Young Museum, or Aquarium by the Bay, or getting your Mickey Mouse love on at the Walt Disney Family Museum, the city has a ton to experience. As for when it gets dark, the city offers a martini trail, or you can dance the night away at 1015 Folsom, The Great Northern, or Monarch, among several other clubs.

6. Houston, Texas

Drone aerial image of downtown Houston, Texas, captured at twilight. The photograph highlights the illuminated skyscrapers, highways, and cityscape under a dramatic evening sky. A vibrant view of one of the largest cities in the United States and a major economic hub.

Meet in Houston, which slots in sixth.

“H-Town” brings a lot to the table for tourists.

“America’s fourth-largest city is a cosmopolitan destination, filled with world-class dining, arts, hotels, shopping and nightlife,” writes the Houston First Corporation.

Don’t sell short the nightlife in Houston, where those taking in the city can check out its theater district, Texas Honky tonks, clubs such as Barbella, The Continental Club, Dreams Bar and Lounge, or Escapade 2001 Houston.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

The heart of New Orleans’ famed Bourbon Street during a lively evening. Neon lights from bars, jazz clubs, and restaurants illuminate the historic French Quarter architecture, while a diverse crowd fills the street with energy and excitement. The scene is a perfect reflection of the city’s vibrant culture, known for its rich history, live music, and world-renowned nightlife. The bright signs of iconic spots like “Fat Catz” and “Chris Owens” draw attention amidst the backdrop of New Orleans’ charming old-world balconies and modern skyscrapers in the distance

Entering the top five, the fun begins in New Orleans.

Underestimated for its recreational activities, “NOLA” truly brings the party with its incredible nightlife scene.

“When the sun goes down, the city comes alive, and the nightlife begins,” said New Orleans & Company. “Though New Orleans has a reputation for being a party destination, our nightlife goes beyond the expected and can be found in jazz clubs, theaters, cocktail lounges, and dive bars.”

You can’t think of “NOLA” and not begin with the noisy and raucous Bourbon Street. Beyond that, travelers can head on over to Frenchman Street, which is full of music. Speaking of tunes, Tiptina’s, Preservation Hall, The Davenport Lounge and the Maple Leaf Bar all provide that music enthusiasm that runs throughout the city.

4. Atlanta, Georgia

Downtown city skyline view of Atlanta, Georgia, looking over Centennial Olympic Park

Coming in at four, another destination from the South: Atlanta.

Both in WalletHub’s top 10 ranking for entertainment and nightlife, “ATL” has everything for those first-time travelers.

The ATL Airport District Convention and Visitor Bureau says, “From the moment you arrive, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy right here, no matter what time of year you visit. With temperate weather year-round, North Georgia doesn’t have much of an off-season.”

Taking in the city, Atlanta is home to the College Football Hall of Fame, Trap Music Museum, Museum of Design Atlanta, Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Magic Theatre. Besides the numerous hot spots, Atlanta’s nightlife is packed with things to explore, including Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Hall, Blake’s On the Park and the Laughing Skull Lounge.

3. Miami, Florida

Miami comes in as the third most fun city, just behind the top two.

The city is known to many as “Magic City,” which means the number of fun things to do comes with surprise and intrigue.

“Greater Miami offers a mosaic of cultures that can be shared through art, music and food – helping visitors discover the unique stories and histories of people from all corners of the world,” Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau acknowledges. “When you visit, it’s easy to immerse yourself in a variety of enriching and satisfying experiences.”

Yes, the beaches bring the vibes, but those venturing in Miami would be remiss not to head to Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, South Beach’s Art Deco District, and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. What about at night? South Beach and Little Havana are all the rage. E11EVEN Miami is open 24 hours! M2 Miami also packs a punch for the clubgoers.

2. Orlando, Florida

Cityscape of Orlando, Florida, featuring modern skyscrapers with illuminated windows and neon accents bordering a serene lake. Reflective water mirrors the vibrant evening sky, painted with soft hues of pink, orange, and purple. The skyline includes distinctive high-rise buildings and a central fountain, adding dynamic elements. The tranquil scene is enhanced by the ethereal glow of ambient city lights, blending architectural elements with the natural beauty of a stunning sunset.

Slotting in just above its Florida counterpart is Orlando.

“Whether it is a trip for families, couples, single travelers or a group of friends, Orlando is the perfect destination thanks to wondrous diversity that ensures an unforgettable vacation filled with unique experiences for every visitor,” according to Visit Orlando.

Orlando leads the nation in amusement parks and is the home of the iconic Disney World and Universal Studios. If the amusement parks aren’t enough entertainment, the city boasts several spas, performing arts theaters, arcades, pool halls and lounges.

The nightlife in Orlando provides a variety of options, from its sprawling entertainment district to the Aero Rooftop Bar & Lounge.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

Aerial shot of Las Vegas, Nevada, at night. Authorization was obtained from the FAA for this operation in restricted airspace.

There’s a reason the city’s longtime slogan was “What Happens Here, Stays Here,” and it’s still what makes Las Vegas earn top spot as the most fun city in the U.S. this year.

You want tons of attractions? Vegas. You want incredible nightlife? Vegas. You want to party and gamble till dawn? It’s Vegas.

“Sin City is known for partying, and it’s one of the only cities in our study where public drinking is allowed in most or all places – whether that’s a good thing or not will depend on your personality, though,” WalletHub says.

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