What is a bachelorette party?

A bachelorette party is a celebration of the bride-to-be's upcoming marriage and their last experiences being single. While it's traditionally carried the stigma of a last fling of freedom it's become a beautiful capsule of quality time between the bride-to-be and their close friends and family.

Who plans the bachelorette party?

Usually the bachelorette party is planned by the maid of honor or the bridesmaids as a group. Sometimes immediate family members will take charge of the plans or the bride-to-be herself will take the reins. Whoever takes the responsibility should communicate with the rest of the group to ensure multiple parties aren't planned simultaneously.

Who gets invited to a bachelorette party?

The maid of honor and bridesmaids are always invited to the bachelorette party. Sometimes invitations are extended to close family members and friends who aren't directly a part of the bridal party. Guest list choices are always left to the bride-to-be regardless of who plans the bachelorette party.

Who pays for the bachelorette party?

If the bachelorette party is just a one-night celebration, it's customary that everyone in attendance pays for their own share as well as their portion of the bride-to-be's expenses. The bride-to-be should not be paying for anything. If the events span over a weekend or longer, each person (including the bride-to-be) should pay for their own share of the expenses as if it were any other trip. For the key celebration (or big night out) during this timeframe, the previously mentioned rules apply where the bride-to-be covers none of the expenses incurred that night.

When should the bachelorette party take place?

Typically a bachelorette party takes place one to four months before the wedding. This can be flexible depending on personal preferences, seasonal requirements, or availability of the group.

30 Unique Bachelorette Party Ideas

If you're looking for out-of-the-box bachelorette party ideas, we've got a few you might not have thought of. Sure, clubbing in Las Vegas or tipsy traipsing through New Orleans are great, but they've been done. And you don't want to throw a regular bachelorette party; you want to throw an Instagram-worthy one. So make it a night the bride will never forget with a fun-filled fête that strays from the ordinary.

We've got tons of great inspo to help you throw an unforgettable bash that everyone will be talking about. Read on for 30 bachelorette party ideas you haven't heard of.

01 of 30

Eat, Drink, and Shoot (With Your Camera)

Salsa and guacamole stand for foodie and photo bachelorette party city tour — Photo by Valorie Darling

You're probably planning on having some tipsy fun at your party or getaway, but it doesn't have to be the whole plan. In Santa Barbara, there's an Eat This, Shoot That tour that's perfect for bachelorette parties. You can tour and taste your way around the Funk Zone's hip eateries, sip and explore the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, savor the flavors of Solvang, or plan a custom experience—all while learning photography and Instagram tips from a professional photographer.

02 of 30

Have One Last Sail Before the Veil

Bachelorette party girls on boat sailing through blue waters for last sail before the veil bachelorette party — Photo by Christina McNeill

So many parties are limited to crowded bars or lounges, so why not give yourself a chance to have fun on the open sea? If you live near the water (or are having a destination bachelorette, like in Cabo, where Seashine Adventures offers a yacht charter), you can rent a boat for a day and call it "The Last Sail Before the Veil." Bring food, drinks, music, and your swimsuits, and make a party of it! You'll get out on the water, soak in some sun, and do something less traditional than a night of clubbing.

03 of 30

Go for a Distillery Tour

Tequila tasting at distillery tour bachelorette party — Photo by Bruno Rezza

But pick one with some eye candy: In Virginia, distilleries are hot—from whiskey to moonshine—and so are the distillers. Check out the boys behind Belle Isle Moonshine, which also has great cocktails. Or, go see all the music and mayhem that can be found in Nashville and take a tour of the Jack Daniel's distillery, just a short ride away, while you are in town. If you want to go more West Coast, consider You & Yours Distilling Co., California's first urban destination distillery led by women, in San Diego.

04 of 30

Be Sassy, but Artful

The Artful Bachelorette is an incredible live drawing class—but oh-so-much more. It's not only a classy yet sassy party option, but it's also an amazing experience. We'll let this one speak for itself.

05 of 30

Go to (Adult) Camp

Camp-themed bachelorette party — Photo by Scott Clark Photography

Club Getaway, based in Kent, Connecticut, (about two hours outside New York City), would make an amazing destination for a bridal party looking for pre-wedding laughs. On the weekends, this adults-only camp lets you act like a kid but with booze and grown-up fun. There are drinking games like beer pong, campfires, great food, and tons of other activities and adventures. If you can't make it to Connecticut, Camp No Counselors is an all-inclusive experience with lodging, meals, and an open bar that has camps in 16 cities across the U.S. and Canada.

06 of 30

Rent a Home—and Make a Party of It

Brunette bachelorette party in matching robes raising glasses of champagne overlooking Italian coast from rented bachelorette party house — Photo by Christina McNeill

Have an Under the Tuscan Sun–type moment and rent a villa in Tuscany, like one of these at Castelfalfi (it even makes its own wine and olive oil on the estate). Instead of competing against other bachelorette groups at hotels, friends are guaranteed to have a place to relax in and call their own.

07 of 30

Hire a Flytographer

Fashionable Bachelorette party dressed up in vineyard for photoshoot — Photo by Inma Fiuza

You’ve no doubt had an engagement shoot with your honey, so why not do a photoshoot with your other loves: your friends! Check out Flytographer, which allows you to hire a photographer for a customized shoot in more than 250 cities around the world, whether it’s where you live or where you’re partying. The pro will lead you to the best local haunts and most Instagrammable spots; you just focus on your outfits.

08 of 30

Get Creative With a Paint Party

You can also get your creative juices flowing with a tamer option than the aforementioned live drawing: a bachelorette paint party. There's no telling what you can paint when you have a glass of wine (or two) and a blank canvas—or, try your hand at ceramics. Pottery is becoming quite the rage. Plenty of studios host classes, and many, like Choplet Ceramic Studio in Brooklyn, New York, allow BYOB.

09 of 30

Embrace Nature With a Camping Trip

Bridesmaids outside of tent for camping or glamping bachelorette party — Photo by Rachel Havel

Whether it's traditional camping or cushy glamping, a weekend outdoors lets you commune with nature for an unforgettable bachelorette party with hiking, fishing, swimming, campfires, and s'mores. If your bride squad is more prim than primal, opt for glamping to get a taste of the outdoors without a lapse in luxury. Decked-out tents like those offered by Under Canvas ensure comfort, and flat irons are just as welcome as campfires and roasted marshmallows. With all the natural light and rustic backdrops, you’ll have plenty of great shots.

10 of 30

Relax With a Staycation

Bride and bridesmaids in robes jumping on bed at staycation hotel bachelorette party — Photo by Katie Ruther

You know that popular photo with all your gal pals in matching PJs on a fluffy white bed? That could be you, too. Instead of heading to the airport, make your destination a nearby luxury hotel—it’s time for a “suite” staycation. Book a large room (or the penthouse) and bring your overnight bags; you’re in for a night or two of unlimited room service, movies on demand, and Champagne.

11 of 30

Wind Down With a Spa Day

While a booze-filled bachelorette-party weekend with friends may appeal to many brides, others are looking for a more low-key wellness getaway. Destination spas, like Canyon Ranch and Cal-a-Vie, have seen an increase in the number of brides swapping a traditional bachelorette party for a wellness weekend. We totally get it: Wedding planning can be stressful, and a few days of quality R&R is a great way to unwind and bond with your besties.

12 of 30

Get Gorgeous With a Glam Squad

Glam Bachelorette party getting professional makeup done — Photo by Inma Fiuza

Get that ring light ready—you’re in for a show-stopping look. Book a glam squad, such as Beautini, to come to you with all the goodies to totally beautify. After you and your BFFs get your smoky eyes and beach waves, pose like Gigi Hadid at a fashion show. You’ll definitely want to upload these photos.

13 of 30

Hit the Country Music Capital

country music Bachelorette party in Nashville — Photo by Nyk + Cali

Cowboy hats, boots, and honky-tonks make for some serious Insta-game, so it’s no wonder Nashville is a hot spot for destination bachelorettes. Head to the country music capital for tours of the Grand Ole Opry, Broadway’s strip of music establishments, and plenty of Tennessee barbecue and whiskey. You never know, but you just might run into a country music star for the ultimate photo op.

14 of 30

Throw a Beach Party in Miami

Bride in pink pjs and bridesmaids in white pjs posing with champagne in front of pool and Miami intracoastal for miami bachelorette party — Photo by PS Photography + Films

With gorgeous sunny weather, an über-trendy nightlife scene, and beautiful beaches, the Instagram opportunities are endless in Miami—especially if you're booking a retro-glam Miami Beach hotel or renting out an epic villa. Set up shop in a colorful cabana by the pool, indulge in boozy Popsicles, and snap some pics on those pool floaties that are all over your Instagram feed every single summer.

15 of 30

Have a Classy Tea Party

For a bride-to-be that likes fancy dresses and fine china, you can't go wrong with a bachelorette tea party. Gather up the squad and get to cheers-ing with tiny teacups, delectable scones, and finger sandwiches. Historic hotels like New York’s Plaza Hotel host classic tea services while London’s The Berkeley has the innovative Pret-a-Portea, with nibbles inspired by the latest runway fashions from designers like Prada and Manolo Blahnik. One added perk: Most afternoon teas include Champagne, so be sure to toast with bubbles in hand.

16 of 30

Get Rowdy in the Wild Wild West

Women dancing in cowboy boots at wild west themed bachelorette party — Photo by Valorie Darling

Bring on the BBQ! Something about cowboy boots, denim, and admittedly even some cow print just feels right. Or, maybe we're all suckers for a great hat opportunity. Whether you book a group ticket down South, host a wild west-themed party in the desert, or just test who can last the longest on a mechanical bull ride, this bach theme doesn't disappoint.

17 of 30

Learn Some Dance Moves

Women in traditional, jewel-toned lehengas dancing at sangeet after dance class bachelorette party — Photo by Bruno Rezza

Who doesn't love dancing with their besties? Get the squad together and hit up a series of dance classes to refine your moves. Spice things up with a pole dance course, get down to some belly dancing, or hire someone to help choreograph moves for the wedding. You'll be dance-floor ready in no time.

18 of 30

Zen Out With a Yoga Retreat

Zen Bachelorette party in yoga class — Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

For the to-be-wed who loves yoga, there's nothing more exciting than practicing with best friends. Grab your mats, leggings, and matching bride-tribe shirts and help channel peace, love, and light to combat wedding-planning stress. We love Yoga for Bad People's retreats for getting Zen while also making sure to party the bachelorette way. These retreats balance the yogic lifestyle with your real one, meaning there is time for adventurous activities like surfing and hiking, plenty of delicious (and sometimes less healthy) local bites, and, of course, cocktails.

19 of 30

Bike Savannah

Thanks to this Georgian city’s Southern charm, delightful hospitality, food-focused culture, and open-container laws, it’s become quite the destination for a bachelorette celebration. Savannah is easily walkable and bikeable, and there is no shortage of brew bike companies, such as the Savannah Pedal Pub, where you can sip as you pedal through the Spanish-moss-lined streets on a party bike. Don't worry a non-drinking driver is doing the actual steering.

20 of 30

Immerse in Mindfulness

Sometimes all a stressed-out bride needs is a bit of mindfulness. Elevate the whole bachelorette group to a healthier state of mind by booking into a transportive sound bath or a grounding meditation. You'll all walk out relaxed, re-centered, and rejuvenated for the upcoming wedding festivities.

21 of 30

Let It All Out in Paintball

Women playing paintball at bachelorette party — Getty Images

Or, perhaps the bride-to-be needs to channel all that energy in a different way. Suit up and hit the paintball course for an exhilarating experience that lets you leave it all on the field. There's nothing more satisfying than just laying into a target in the name of recreational fun.

22 of 30

Host a Luxe Slumber Party

Bride and bridesmaids singing and dancing in pajamas at slumber party bachelorette party — Photo by We the Romantics

Once upon a time, receiving a slumber party invite was on par with securing Met Gala attendance. Revisit peak teen festivities by hosting a luxurious iteration of just that. Invite the VIPs over for a night of chit-chat, nostalgic snacks, and dancing in your pajamas to old-school tunes. You can even set up a movie projector in the living room or backyard and create a screening experience you'll never forget.

23 of 30

Break (and Make) Bread Together

A bachelorette party that also imparts crucial life skills? We were skeptical too—but a cooking class just adds a little something extra to a dinner night out. Book a private in-home class or attend a variety of culinary classes at places like Eataly or Sur la Table and prepare to get your hands dirty. The whole crew can learn to make a meal from handmade pasta to sushi and enjoy their handiwork at dinner post-class.

24 of 30

Sip Through a Winery Tour

Women clinking glasses of rose in the sunshine at a bachelorette party at a vineyard — Photo by Inma Fiuza

If your group is partial to wine nights or has an affinity for a particular red (or white), few bachelorette party ideas will top a winery tour. Hours of sipping on a variety of well-balanced vinos while sampling cheese platters and basking in the dappled sunlight with your besties is nothing short of heaven. You might even discover a new favorite to showcase at the wedding.

25 of 30

Brave an Epic Hike

Girls hiking during outdoor bachelorette party — Holly Mandarich / unsplash

On the more active end of the spectrum, undertaking a dynamic hiking trail as a group can be incredibly rewarding. You'll push through the physical trials and tribulations of the terrain, possibly release some emotional baggage along the way, and ultimately arrive at an unreal panoramic vista as a result. Now that's a day well spent.

26 of 30

Get Spiritual

Whether you're a skeptic or a die-hard devotee, there's something quite magnetic about the mysteries of all things woo. If the crew is down for a bit of mysticism, why not explore the spiritual side together? Attend a tarot card, tea leaf, or palm reading for a bit of insight or have a professional draw up your natal charts. You'll either learn something totally worthwhile or just get some new stories to fondly look back on.

27 of 30

Get Down to Disco

Bride at disco-themed karaoke bachelorette party dancing — Photo by Ana Hinojosa

Okay, it doesn't have to be disco but if you're going for a karaoke night it might as well be sequined. Book a private karaoke room or try an at-home setup and get ready for a night of belting epic tunes in genre-appropriate costumes. Disco makeup, platforms, and big hair are non-negotiable.

28 of 30

Explore on a Local Tour

From tours of haunted houses to hidden gems, many cities offer off-the-beaten-path guides to what makes the place so unique. It’s likely your town or destination has options, too. Look up Airbnb Experiences for inspo on excursions, including food tours, waterfall-accented hikes, and bar-hopping with a local. You’ll get a rare look at the city and have fun exploring something new with your closest friends and family.

29 of 30

Ride a Wave of Nostalgia at an Amusement Park

Girls having fun at waterpark for bachelorette party — Jed Villejo / unsplash

Nothing says adrenaline-pumping bachelorette party like a visit to the amusement or water park The rush of nostalgia, the buzz of the high-intensity rides, the competitive edge of carnival games, the sugar high of delectably dangerous snacks—what more could a person want? Just don't forget the comfortable kicks and VIP guest passes so blisters and long lines don't kill the mood.

30 of 30

Attend a Music Festival

Music festivals naturally lend themselves to memorable group outings. Between the tunes, the dancing, the food, and the outfit opportunities, there's not a single bachelorette party checkbox that doesn't get ticked. Check out SongKick for upcoming festivals in your area and if you're pressed for options, there are plenty of outdoor concerts that fit the bill, too.

FAQ

What is a bachelorette party?

A bachelorette party is a celebration of the bride-to-be's upcoming marriage and their last experiences being single. While it's traditionally carried the stigma of a last fling of freedom it's become a beautiful capsule of quality time between the bride-to-be and their close friends and family.
Who plans the bachelorette party?

Usually the bachelorette party is planned by the maid of honor or the bridesmaids as a group. Sometimes immediate family members will take charge of the plans or the bride-to-be herself will take the reins. Whoever takes the responsibility should communicate with the rest of the group to ensure multiple parties aren't planned simultaneously.
Who gets invited to a bachelorette party?

The maid of honor and bridesmaids are always invited to the bachelorette party. Sometimes invitations are extended to close family members and friends who aren't directly a part of the bridal party. Guest list choices are always left to the bride-to-be regardless of who plans the bachelorette party.
Who pays for the bachelorette party?

If the bachelorette party is just a one-night celebration, it's customary that everyone in attendance pays for their own share as well as their portion of the bride-to-be's expenses. The bride-to-be should not be paying for anything. If the events span over a weekend or longer, each person (including the bride-to-be) should pay for their own share of the expenses as if it were any other trip. For the key celebration (or big night out) during this timeframe, the previously mentioned rules apply where the bride-to-be covers none of the expenses incurred that night.
When should the bachelorette party take place?

Typically a bachelorette party takes place one to four months before the wedding. This can be flexible depending on personal preferences, seasonal requirements, or availability of the group.