If the 2011 comedy “Bridesmaids” is to believed, the ideal bachelorette party can take place no where else but Vegas. To be fair, it’s easy to see why Sin City is often the destination of choice—replete with flashy strip clubs, big-name casinos and a variety of shows and acts, you can truly live up the last of your “single woman” status.
But when they say “traditional,” we say “cliché.” So if you’d rather pass on a lap dance from an overly buff, bow-tied Chippendale dancer, here are five alternatives to celebrate the end of solo living:
Monster Truck Rally
What could be more fun than getting in touch with your masculine side at a monster truck rally? Picture it: You and five of your best girlfriends sipping beer, wearing trucker hats and screaming at the top of your lungs while giant metal machines with absurdly large tires crush average-sized cars into oblivion. The Motor Home Demolition Derby in Costa Mesa, Calif., takes place once per year, and it’s worth the trip. It’s dirty, loud and totally outside of your comfort zone, therefore totally fitting for memories that last a lifetime.
Wisconsin Dells
Believe it or not, the Waterpark Capital of the World is located in Wisconsin Dells, Wisc. There are enough water slides, wading pools and inner tubes to keep you and your girls busy for days. “The Dells” features more than 20 indoor and outdoor water parks, campgrounds and other attractions like water-ski shows, go-kart tracks, museums, golf courses and a casino, according to Dells.com. Mt. Olympus Waterpark is best for adult visitors, while Noah’s Ark is more family friendly.
Beach House in La Jolla
If you and your girls prefer ocean waves to noise and lights, a beach house in La Jolla can cost at little as $162/night, according to Vrbo.com. Spend every morning watching the sun rise over the Pacific and every evening enjoying a delicious seafood meal. The city is bike-friendly, with plenty of shopping and shows to have a blast and relax with your girlfriends.
Road Trip to Graceland
If you’re an Elvis fan, you can’t miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Graceland in Memphis, Tenn. After exploring the mansion-turned-museum of the King himself, check out other popular tourist attractions like live music and nightlife down Beale Street or a rousing Grizzlies game at the FedExForum. Indulge in an eclectic mix of 5-star cuisine and back-alley barbecue, and bring home some novelty souvenirs at one of the city’s many funky downtown shops.
The Grand Canyon
You don’t have to walk a tightrope across the Grand Canyon to catch a thrill from this mystical, natural wonder. You can raft through the canyon’s unpredictable waters and stop at cool lagoons to enjoy the view. Hike up Rim Trail for a breathtaking view, or head up the steeper Bright Angel Trail on the back of a dependable mule. Make sure to experience the thundering waterfalls and crystal blue waterways of Havasu Falls while you’re there. It’s one of the most beautiful sites in the Canyon.
