Unique Bachelor Party Activities: 10+ Fun and Alternative Ideas for Bachelor Parties

Discover the best bachelor party ideas for grooms who want a memorable party without the debauchery.

If you’re a groom who is not into the stereotypical levels of debauchery that are usually ascribed to bachelor parties, rest assured that there are still plenty of fun ways to spend a night or weekend with your closest friends.

a-groom-and-his-groomsmen-clad-in-black-tuxedos-toast-to-his-upcoming-marriage
Photo: Ira Lippke Studios

When most people discuss bachelor and bachelorette parties, it’s phrased as the last night (or weekend) of being single, or the final opportunity to go wild before saying "I do." Although, except in the eyes of the law, you are obviously not single if you’re engaged. Realistically, your “wild days” probably ended long before the proposal, and many grooms-to-be are looking for bachelor party ideas that don't involve strippers, a bar crawl, or needing a designated driver on a Saturday night.

If you’re a groom who is not into the stereotypical levels of debauchery that are usually ascribed to at bachelor parties, or you and your partner have agreed that strippers will not be part of the evening, rest assured that there are still plenty of great bachelor party ideas to spend a night or weekend with your closest friends.

Note: We recommend letting your best man know if one of the below options would be preferable to you – otherwise he may plan a big Las Vegas blowout without knowing that you might be a bit uncomfortable with the idea.

Whether you simply do one of these activities or combine several for a full boys’ weekend filled with some of the best bachelor party ideas, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the wedding party to enjoy!

Groom with Groomsmen in Hotel Bar bachelor party ideas

Photo by Ledia Tashi Photography; From Real Wedding: A Luxe Wedding with Indian & Egyptian Influences in Miami

Bachelor Party Themes and Destinations to Consider

Choosing a theme and destination for a bachelor party can be a fun and creative process. Here are some ideas to consider depending on the groom's personal style and preferences:

Unique Bachelor Party Ideas for the Outdoorsman:

  • Go camping, plan a hiking excursion, or choose an outdoor adventure that fits the groom’s interests. It’s a great way to bond with friends while enjoying the great outdoors – especially for the groom who has plans to visit one of his favorite National Park destinations.
  • A camping trip can be as adventurous or relaxing as you want. With beach or desert camping, you and your friends can sit around the fire with beer and hot dogs – or go up to the mountains and plan a weekend full of hikes, fishing, or even rock climbing!
  • Consider using a party bus for transportation to your desired outdoor activities, combining sightseeing with entertainment and allowing everyone to enjoy activities like drinking and dancing without worrying about driving (especially if there will be alcohol involved).
  • If your wedding is taking place in the colder months, a trip to the snow for skiing or snowboarding allows you to have a sense of adventure and even burn some extra calories before the wedding day.

Bachelor Party Activities for the Sportsman:

  • Organize a sporting event, such as a baseball game or golf tournament, that aligns with the groom’s favorite activities. It’s a perfect way to combine fun and friendly competition.
  • If your favorite sports team is in season when it comes time for your bachelor party, gather everyone to go to a game. Consider getting box seats to make it more special and increase the party vibe, and if it’s allowed at the stadium, be sure to tailgate as well!
  • Hit the links for a round of golf with your buddies, and don’t be afraid to enjoy your favorite spa services after if you're golfing at a resort.
  • Have your best man get some novelty shirts and swing by one of those luxury bowling alleys.
  • Plan a unique and memorable adventure that the groom will never forget. Whether it’s skydiving, a road trip, or a surprise getaway, make it an experience to remember.

best bachelor party ideas Basketball Player Danny Green with Groomsmen

Photo by Amy Anaiz Photography; From Real Wedding: The "Green Bash" Wedding of NBA Champion Danny Green

Bachelor Party Activities for the Gamer:

  • Most metropolitan areas have video game lounges that can be rented out for private parties.
  • For a memorable bachelor party, instead of playing your favorite first-person shooter, you can live it by going paintballing or participating in a laser tag tournament.
  • Make your own Mario Kart by hitting up a go-kart track! Most usually have mini-golf and arcades on the premises, so you can expand on the day.
  • Host a game night! Whether the groom loves poker or even D&D, getting friends together to play card games, board games, etc. for a few hours can be just the unforgettable experience the groom needs before the big day with his friends.
  • After playing the favorite games of the groom, consider a comedy club night or a movie marathon that matches the groom’s sense of humor. Laughter is a great way to create lasting memories.

Bachelor Party Ideas for the Epicure:

  • Gather everyone to go to the best steakhouse in town and treat yourself to an elite dinner for a great bachelor party. Planning a fancy dinner in a private room at an upscale restaurant will help to celebrate the occasion with close family members and friends in a sophisticated way.
  • A tour of a craft beer brewery is a great excuse to drink for free while still feeling like an activity. If you’re more of a hard liquor man, you can book a private tasting at a whiskey or scotch bar.
  • Plan a food and drink tour or brewery crawl to local breweries that caters to the groom’s culinary tastes. It’s a delicious way to celebrate and explore new flavors, and some may even have unique activities, such as axe throwing.

Groom Cheersing with Wedding Party great bachelor party idea for grooms

Photo by Melani Lust Photography; Bridal Salon: The Wedding Salon of Manhasset; From Real Wedding: A Stunning & Sentimental Sunset Beach Ceremony in the Hamptons

6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Bachelor Party

Planning a bachelor party can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a fun and memorable experience for the groom-to-be and his friends, as well as whoever is planning the fun event. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect bachelor party:

1. Set a Budget

Determine how much you and the other lads are willing to spend on the bachelor party and stick to it. Consider the cost of activities, transportation, and accommodations to avoid any financial surprises. Don't forget these tips to ensure the one planning doesn't end up with the bill at the end of the night:

  • Take into account the cost of activities, transportation, and accommodations when planning the bachelor party. This will help you avoid any unexpected expenses.
  • Share the costs among the group to make it more affordable for everyone. This way, no one person is burdened with the entire expense. And remember, the groom's share should be covered by those in attendance.
  • Plan ahead! Book activities and accommodations well in advance to get the best deals. Early planning can help you secure discounts and avoid last-minute price hikes, so one last fun adventure doesn't become an evening that starts to become all about how much money you lost.

2. Choose a Theme

Decide on a theme that reflects the groom’s interests and personality. Whether it’s a laid-back beach weekend or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a theme helps guide your planning and ensures everyone involved has a great time.

3. Select a Destination

Pick a destination that is convenient for everyone and fits within your group's budget. Think about the time of year and any travel restrictions that might affect your plans when considering your potential bachelor party ideas.

4. Plan Activities

Organize a variety of activities that align with the theme and destination. From outdoor adventures and sporting events to comedy clubs and gourmet dinners, make sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy – whether it's a night of activities or a few days of fun.

5. Create a Guest List

Decide who to invite to the bachelor party. Make sure to include all of the groom’s close friends and family members to ensure a memorable celebration. From a small group to large groups, it's key to ask the groom who he wants to attend his bachelor party. Nothing should come as a surprise unless you know with 100% certainty he would be excited about a surprise guest.

6. Book Accommodations

If necessary for your bachelor party ideas, be sure to secure accommodations! Choose an option that fits within your budget and is convenient for everyone. Consider renting a house or booking a block of hotel rooms to keep the group together and enhance the camaraderie.

For more pre-wedding event ideas, get ideas for a co-ed bachelor/bachelorette party, find out what type of bachelorette party is right for you, and get ideas for winter activities with your bridesmaids and best friends.