Stereotyping is like...so last year. And judging a book by its cover? Not cute. Please keep all of this in mind when you read what I’m about to write next: You should do your honeymoon in a party city. Specifically, Las Vegas, New Orleans, or Miami. Yes, I’m being serious. No, you won’t need to pack a stash of Liquid IV and a XL bottle of Advil. These cities might be known for their nightlife, but they can actually be pretty damn romantic. Trust. And they’re definitely *way* more fun than that cheesy rose-petals-in-the-bathtub resort your mother-in-law told you to look into.
Whether you and your boo are fans of late nights and fancy dinners, historic architecture and strong drinks, or sandy toes and self-care, we’ve got a honeymoon itinerary for you. We broke each of the three cities up into three sections: where to stay, where to eat, and where to play, with plenty of options in each, because no two couples are the same, obvi. So if you’re planning your honeymoon right now, trust us—you’re gonna wanna read this in full. It’s time to open your mind, cue up Rihanna’s “We Found Love [in a Hopeless Place],” and redownload that flight-price tracker app on your phone. Promise you won’t regret it.
For the Late-Night Lovers: LAS VEGAS
If you and your permanent plus-one aren’t afraid to embrace your kitschy side, the walk-in wedding capital of the world should absolutely be on your post-reception radar. Sure, the city may be synonymous with shenanigans, but (1) what’s wrong with that? and (2) it’s an A+ destination to indulge and bliss TF out after a job well done in the “I do” department.
More From Cosmopolitan
Where to Stay
If you wanna be in the middle of the action, opt for a spot right on the Strip, like the hella-luxe Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace (yes, like the Nobu the Kardashians are always tagging) or the Four Seasons Las Vegas, where you should definitely call ahead for the Saturday afternoon tea. If you’d rather escape the lights come bedtime, Green Valley Ranch is a resort-style oasis just a 15-minute drive from the iconic “Welcome to Vegas” sign.
Where to Eat
For an excuse to wear that fahncy dress in the back of your closet, head to é by José Andrés for a modern take on classic Spanish dishes. You could also catch dinner and a water show at Prime Steakhouse, a classic spot with a patio overlooking the famous Fountains of Bellagio. Last, toast your nuptials at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant, where you can slurp escargots atop the life-size replica.
Where to Play
Forgo your hangovers and take your love to new heights (sorry, thought this was The Bachelor for a second) with Vegas Balloon Rides for a stunning view of the Mojave Desert. If you’d rather stay on solid footing, visit the Neon Museum for incredible selfies among the city’s antique neon signs or hit the ground hungry with Secret Food Tours, where you can snack on treats often overlooked by tourists and sightsee at the same damn time.
For the Posh(ish) Pair: NEW ORLEANS
Far more charming than any prince, this sunny city has it all—rich history, nice strangers, strong libations (ever heard of the Sazerac, aka the official drink of NOLA?), and live jazz filling famous streets all night long. You and your partner could spend an entire day just hand-hugging while looking at the colorful architecture or stopping into centuries-old cafés for beignets you’ll probably also want to marry.
Where to Stay
Tickle your inner history buff with a stay at one of two meticulously restored 19th-century mansions turned hotels: the ornate Columns, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, or the Chloe, which has a lively pool bar. Both are located in and around the quiet(er) Garden District, but if you *need* to be near Bourbon Street (you party animal, you), try the Mediterranean-inspired Hotel Mazarin, one block back from the action.
Where to Eat
NOLA is known for its Cajun and Creole cuisines, and you dare not leave the city without hitting all the classic spots. The po’boys at Domilise’s, where they’ve been slinging sammies since 1918, are definitely worth the wait in line. And the turtle soup is a required starter at Commander’s Palace, which puts on an elegant weekend jazz brunch. One more for those historians out there: Be sure to make a reservation at Brennan’s, where bananas Foster was invented in 1951 (bonus: its baby-pink exterior is just begging to be ’grammed).
Where to Play
Hey, remember those Sazeracs? Stop by Sazerac House, a museum and tasting room dedicated to the world’s oldest cocktail (!), for a complimentary tour, or head to Hotel Monteleone to sip one while spinning on its beloved Carousel Bar. (Yes, it actually revolves! And yes, you should avoid it if you’re hungover!!!) On a more sober day, head to the French Quarter for a couples reading at Voodoo Authentica, an acclaimed shop owned by local practitioners.
For the Sun-Hungry Duo: MIAMI
Between the year-round spicy weather, the thriving art scene, and the unique blend of cultures, Magic City is a fab destination. Honeymoons could include bikinis and beach bars (no passport needed) or museum visits and fine dining. You can hit the clubs in South Beach or sip mojitos while people-watching in Little Havana.
Where to Stay
Wedding planning (and, uh, seeing all your family members in one place) can wear ya down, so self-care-forward hotels like the newly renovated Standard Spa and the 5-star Faena Hotel Miami Beach are no-brainers. Rather skip the massages for some sun ’n’ swim? The Gabriel South Beach has one of the chicest pools, while the Confidante Miami Beach is retro-glam perfection on the sand.
Where to Eat
The only thing better than being in the water is dining on the water, and Amara at Paraiso and La Mar (from Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio) let you do just that, both offering Latin American–inspired dishes and patios overlooking Biscayne Bay. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book a table well in advance at Casa Tua. The secret-garden-esque atmosphere will leave you feeling like you balled out on a Tuscan holiday despite, you know, not doing that.
Where to Play
No honeymoon is complete without a little frisky business, and the World Erotic Art Museum is a mecca for NSFW photography, sculptures, and more. For less noodz and more learning, stroll through the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning Gilded Age estate. Follow either museum with XL pours at Schnebly Redland’s Winery, where you’ll find varietals made with local tropical fruits and tiki huts built for imbibing.
Bonus Hot Spots You Should Know About!
For Foodie Couples: Seattle, Washington
For Adventure Seekers: Scottsdale, Arizona
For Music Enthusiasts: Atlanta, Georgia
For Sports Aficionados: Los Angeles, California
For Comedy Lovers: Chicago, Illinois
Hannah Chubb is the associate lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things home, travel, food, health, career, and more. She spends pretty much every hour of every day curating the internet for the best new products, trends, and travel destinations. You can typically find her looking for houses she can’t afford on Zillow or Airbnb, planning her next meal before she gets to the restaurant, or taking all of the Justin Bieber classes over and over and over again on Peloton. Follow her on Instagram.
