We can get some inspiration from America’s most fun states based on real data from WalletHub, considering the number of restaurants, amusement parks, and music festivals. Florida tops the fun chart with its sunny beaches, lively bars, and endless activities. My home state, California, comes in second, and I couldn’t agree more! That’s probably why it’s so expensive…maybe it’s the fun tax?
What one person finds fun, another might think is totally lame. But, according to recent data from WalletHub, many agree that these states are seriously lacking in activities and entertainment. So, here’s to hoping your state isn’t on the Debbie Downer list!
West Virginia
West Virginia’s low cost of living and scenic Appalachian views draw plenty of admirers, but a new study might have you thinking twice. The state ranked last for fun, scoring only 17.01, while Florida, the most fun state, scored 65.51.
Limited entertainment options like theaters, fitness centers, and nightlife spots brought this state the lowest score. With limited personal spending on recreation and scarce art venues, exciting options can be hard to come by. Even reaching big-city conveniences is challenging due to West Virginia’s rural, mountainous landscape.
Mississippi
You can call Mississippi the Hospitality State—it’s full of friendly faces, historic sites, and beautiful scenery. But it recently ranked second to last for fun. There aren’t many nightclubs, cultural attractions, or unique spots to explore compared to other states. You might find a music museum or two (it’s Elvis Presley’s birthplace, after all), but there’s not much variety.
Getting around isn’t easy either, with inadequate public transit choices and not many parks per capita. Plus, driving can be risky on its rural roads, and coastal waters sometimes carry that infamous flesh-eating bacteria!
Delaware
Delaware has that small-town charm, so it’s no surprise that some visitors feel the cultural scene and nightlife can be quieter than in bigger states. Outside of the beaches, there aren’t a lot of options for dining and entertainment. While Delaware’s shores are lovely, they may not rival the famous beaches of Florida or California.
Locals might disagree, though! There’s Penn Cinema Riverfront in Wilmington, the Delaware Art Museum, and the Hagley Museum. You can even hop on a cruise for dolphin spotting, bird tours, or a private fishing trip.
Rhode Island
If you’re a movie buff, I have to break it to you: there are better spots than Rhode Island for you. The state has some of the least movie theaters per capita in the country. As the smallest state in America, Rhode Island doesn’t cover much land, so its geography and lifestyle offerings are limited.
There aren’t many bars, clubs, or entertainment venues, so it can feel a bit dull. If you’re looking for vibrant nightlife or a bustling arts scene, you might want to explore elsewhere for more excitement.
Arkansas
Arkansas doesn’t exactly shine when it comes to entertainment, recreation, and nightlife. With only a few major cities, those seeking a bustling vibe might feel let down. This Southern state has one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S., so people might be reluctant to go out at night.
But don’t give up hope if you love nature! Paddlers can float down the beautiful Buffalo River or kayak through the cypress swamps in the Delta. Outdoor lovers can also enjoy a hundred miles of hiking trails and singletrack for mountain biking.
Vermont
Every Autumn, thousands of “leaf peepers” flock to Vermont to enjoy the stunning fall foliage. But living in rural areas can be tough. With no big shopping centers or entertainment venues nearby, recreational and dining options can feel pretty slim. Unless, of course, you’re up for a longer drive to access cultural events and specialized services.
And did I mention Vermont has the fewest fast-food restaurants per capita? That’s true! Winters can also be long and harsh, and about 9-10% of Vermonters struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Connecticut
The Nutmeg State boasts breathtaking landscapes, and it’s no wonder residents love the outdoors. With the ocean at your fingertips, you can enjoy boating, fishing, and watersports. Hikers, hunters, and campers can explore amazing spots like Bigelow Hollow State Park, Mount Tom State Park, and Sleeping Giant State Park. Just a heads-up, though—fun doesn’t always come cheap!
Entertainment costs in Connecticut can be pretty steep, from pricey restaurants to movie tickets and drinks. Residents pay about 9% more than the national average for entertainment and personal care. Plus, groceries, utilities, and transportation can run 5 to 20% higher than average. It’s not sounding so fun on the wallet, after all!
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is not only one of the least fun states but also the least diverse as well. Surprisingly, locals have a different take on fun. They love bar hopping in Portsmouth and shopping by the water. Outdoor lovers enjoy hiking trails in the stunning White Mountains, including the Appalachian Trail and Franconia Ridge Loop. Riverjack’s Restaurant and Lazy Jack’s are great spots for people-watching!
But we can’t ignore some hard facts either. New Hampshire has fewer attractions per capita, like movie theaters and performing arts venues, than livelier states. The nightlife scene is pretty quiet, and limited public transportation means residents depend heavily on their cars.
Kentucky
It’s true—Kentucky isn’t packed with popular attractions like beaches or big cities. Major entertainment venues, like concert arenas, are mainly in larger cities. Public transport is limited, with only a few bus lines and passenger trains. Plus, Kentucky faces natural disasters like floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes.
But here’s the fun part: The Bluegrass State loves basketball, with the University of Kentucky’s men’s team being a powerhouse in NCAA history. Kentucky also has strong ties to Bluegrass and country music, boasting legends like Loretta Lynn and Bill Monroe. So yes, it can get lively here if you know where to look!
North Dakota
People often picture North Dakota as a vast, empty tundra with little to offer for vacations. With its extreme temperatures and wide-open spaces, it can feel lonely, especially for those used to bustling cities. While places like Grand Forks and Fargo have some entertainment options, the choices in culture, dining, and nightlife can be minimal.
But don’t overlook the Peace Garden State! Explore the stunning Badlands and the prairies of the Red River Valley. You can go fishing on Lake Sakakawea or enjoy horseback riding along the Maah Daah Hey Trail.
Source: WalletHub
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