The 10 Most Fun Cities In The United States

Having fun is a very subjective experience, and indeed what constitutes amusement will vary greatly from person to person. Yet no matter what activity the individual is looking for, the one commonality between everyone is the quest for joy and happiness. In a country as diverse as America, fun will come in many different ways for different tastes. According to data from WalletHub, here are the cities where the most diverse fun can be had based on the total score out of 100 when ranked across various criteria related to having fun.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada - 73.95

Known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” it should be no surprise that Las Vegas lands at the top spot for America’s most fun cities. According to WalletHub’s findings, “Sin City” scores 73.95 out of 100 for its entertainment value and ranks number one for its nightlife and parties. Indeed with so many extravagant hotels, casinos, shows, lights, and attractions along the famous Strip, Las Vegas is a mecca for amusement and leisure that is increasingly becoming even suitable for the whole family. 

2. Orlando, Florida - 63.90

The home of Walt Disney World and the Universal Studios Resort, Orlando ranks as America’s second most fun city, according to WalletHub. With a total fun score of 63.90 out of 100, Orlando is indeed a beautiful place to visit that attracts up to 75 million visitors a year. In addition to its famous major theme parks, the city also boasts the most restaurants per capita and houses a bustling nightlife, fantastic art museums, and outstanding Florida sun. 

3. Miami, Florida - 55.60

Miami ranks just behind Orlando in its fun score with 55.60 out of 100, according to WalletHub, and any time spent in this splendid Florida city will surely bring plenty of amusement. Tied with Orlando for having the most restaurants per capita, Miami is a major urban center with a thriving arts scene and bustling Hispanic community. Home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and hot sunshine, the Port of Miami (the world’s busiest cruise port) also welcomes millions of visitors each year. Enjoy great museums, shops, galleries, and a truly fantastic cultural atmosphere. In Miami, fun is truly in the air. 

4. Atlanta, Georgia - 53.59

Atlanta reached a fun score of 53.59 out of 100, and with its great cultural and historical importance, it is clear to see why this Southern city brings so much great leisure. The largest city in Georgia and its capital, Atlanta, was a major site of the Civil War, which grew into a considerable industrial hub in the 20th century. Visit places like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Centennial Olympic Park, or go picking fruits (including the ever-famous Georgia peaches). Learning and fun are sure to be found in the “Gate City."

5. New Orleans, Louisiana - 53.14

Fifth on WalletHub’s list of most fun American cities, the “Big Easy” scores 53.14 out of 100 on the fun scale. This one-stop multicultural, multilingual, and historic city is indeed the definition of fun, where great music, cuisine, and culture meet. Visit during the height of Mardi Gras and Carnival, where the famed and historic Bourbon Street is a veritable non-stop party. And as the hub and historic birthplace of such musical genres like blues, jazz, and Southern Gospel, there will surely never be a shortage of dancing and fun in this fabulous Louisiana wonderland. 

6. San Francisco, California - 52.65

San Francisco lands in sixth place with a fun score of 52.65 according to the data compiled by WalletHub, and is tied with New Orleans and Honolulu as having the most festivals per capita. It also boasts the most dance clubs per capita in another tie with Las Vegas. Widely renowned for its iconic landmarks, vast natural beauty, and its cool climate, this city by the Bay and the Pacific Ocean is steeped in great awe and amusement. An excellent experience for all ages visiting such places like the Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, Presidio Park, and many restaurants, museums, and galleries, make San Francisco an absolutely wonderful metropolis to explore and have fun. 

7. Austin, Texas - 51.21

Texas’ capital ranks seventh with a fun score of 51.21 out of 100. A regional center for business and tech innovation, Austin is a bustling economic hub with incredible natural surroundings. Spend time along the water at Lady Bird Lake, Barton Springs Pool, and the stunning McKinney Falls State Park, or enjoy the fun festivals held throughout the year. These include the Austin Reggae Festival, the competitive cook-off Spamarama, and the Kite Festival. In addition, Austin boasts the highest per capita number of music venues. 

8. Honolulu, Hawaii - 50.0

With a fun score of 50.0, the Hawaiian capital reaches the eighth place on WalletHub’s list of most fun cities in America. Tied with San Francisco and New Orleans for having the most festivals per capita, a wide variety of great cultures and cuisines can be experienced in Honolulu. Including Asian and Pacific restaurants, a splendid and sunny climate, and stunning beach areas, having a fun and relaxing time in Hawaii is never hard. Honolulu is a fun and exciting island paradise featuring various great shopping outlets, lavish hotels, charming neighborhoods (including Waikiki), and historical tours and destinations. 

9. New York City, New York - 49.90

The “Big Apple” ranks ninth and based on data from WalletHub scores 49.9 out of 100 on its scale of fun. This undisputed Global Hub City remains a true magnet for a diverse range of languages, cuisines, art, ethnic groups, and cultural traditions. Visit the bustling Times Square, take in a Broadway show, bask in the scenery of Central Park, cross the Brooklyn Bridge, go shopping, and eat at a great restaurant; there is truly never a shortage of fun activities to do in New York City. With its iconic buildings and world-famous spirit, this “City that Never Sleeps” is a playground for the curious, adventurous, and all who seek great culture and fun.

10. Chicago, Illinois - 49.59

The “Windy City” has a 49.59 fun score according to WalletHub, ranking it as America’s tenth most fun city. Tied with Orlando, San Francisco, Miami, and Las Vegas as having the most restaurants per capita, Chicago never offers its visitors a dull moment. With an iconic skyline, beautifully diverse neighborhoods, and great waterside views along Lake Michigan, Illinois’ largest city always has fun on hand. Visit an art gallery, try the menu offerings at an award-winning restaurant, stroll along the Magnificent Mile, or just marvel at the architecture - Chicago aims to please and create lasting and fun memories. 

Though the means by which an individual has fun varies greatly, these great American cities all share the common trait of offering a diverse range of activities to create amusement and happiness. Based on data compiled by WalletHub, the cities on this list, from the Pacific paradise of Honolulu to the cultural wonderland of New Orleans, are all great places to explore for anyone searching for great fun. In their own way, they each define what it means to have a good time and enjoy life. 

The 50 Most Fun Cities In America