Planning sucks, and bachelorette parties are a ton of work. So we’re taking all the guesswork out of planning a bachelorette party by breaking down top bachelorette destinations. Our guides will tell you where to stay, eat, party, how to get around, and give you a sample itinerary that you can follow. You’re welcome.
If you only know Nashville because of country music and hot chicken, get your sh*t together. This magical land of southern hospitality, hipsters, amazing music (of all kinds), and a lot of really f*cking good food is going to be your new fav Bachelorette party destination. Yes, there are a LOT of bachelorette parties in this Tennessee city already, but like, it’s for a reason. Between rows upon rows of bars and clubs and some of the best hungover brunches ever, Nashville has a ton to offer for your bride tribe.
How To Get There
Nashville is an easy drive from places places like Charlotte, Atlanta, Memphis, and other Southeast spots. Everyone else, hop a plane and set your sights on Nashville International Airport. Since it’s a decent-sized hub, roundtrip non-stop flights from major airports in and around NYC start at around $300, and flights from Chicago elsewhere in the Midwest are priced about the same. Dallas and deep South travelers are looking at around $250, and West coast people can snag a flight for about the same.
Once you get to the airport in Nashville, you can grab an Uber as easily as other airports in major cities to bring you to the center of Nashville, where I assume you’ve booked somewhere to stay. Speaking of…
Where To Stay
Like Atlanta, where you end up staying in Nashville is based on the kind of bachelorette party you want to have. Are you a non-stop partier? Do you want an authentic country music experience? Are you really just interested in food? Or do you want to party with a bunch of Vanderbilt kids? The choice is yours.
Downtown is the first, best, and most obvious spot you may want to look into. From downtown, you’ll have the easiest access to sh*t like Lower Broadway where all the bars and honky-tonks are. You also won’t have to Uber f*cking everywhere since it’s super walkable (unless like, you wore those sky-high heels that you KNOW kill your feet but your butt just looks so good in them). From downtown, too, it’s an easy ride to other neighborhoods that you may want to explore during the day. A few hotels like the The Westin Nashville (has a GREAT rooftop bar) and Bobby Hotel are great options just based on location. Plus, they’re hella stylish and will make for great Instas.
If you can’t get a hotel right in the downtown area (esp if it’s like, bachelorette party season), look for anything in the neighborhood called The Gulch. It’s super close to downtown and has a few noteworthy hotels like The Thompson.
There are also, of course, lots of Airbnbs, so pick whichever better suits your party’s needs.
How To Get Around
If you’re staying downtown, you’ll have great access to walkable spots, but if you’re looking to explore some other neighborhoods, you’ll probably have to Uber a few times. Luckily, Uber is super cheap in Nashville compared to somewhere like NYC, so yay for that.There’s also a pubcycle, so you can travel around the heart of the city in a way that makes every local hate you while you drink and shout at strangers! Just saying, it’s a great option when you’re already blackout (or planning to be).
Where To Eat
There are a few things you must eat while in Nashville and they include hot chicken, meat and three (which is an old Southern-style meal consisting of a meat and three sides), and a brunch that includes biscuits and/or grits to soak up all the alcohol from last night’s honky-tonk bullsh*t.
With these must-eat things in mind, you’ll want to hit a few restaurants for sure. First up, Prince’s, one of the most popular spots for hot chicken and the originator of the bird. When they say it’s hot, they mean it’s f*cking hot. Literally, the entire premise of Nashville hot chicken is built around the semi-urban legend that a woman was so pissed at her dude for cheating on her that she made his fried chicken insanely spicy. The plan backfired, cause that two-timing asshole enjoyed it. Allegedly, the recipient (and two-timer) was Thorton Prince, whose family still owns the joint. Anyway, if you can’t get a table at Prince’s (it’s literally always mobbed and has a line out the door most days and it’s a bit outside town), Hattie B’s, Bolton’s Spicy Chicken and Fish, and Party Fowl are all solid hot chickenoptions.
Barbecue and a meat and three (remember, three sides) are also must-haves and, may I say, do rather nicely when you’re chugging booze all day. Make sure your stops include a pop in at either Martin’s Bar-B-Que (it has an amaze outdoor beer garden and is literally right in downtown) or Edley’s Bar-B-Que which has locations in East Nashville, Sylvan Park, or south of downtown. In Nashville, the name of the game is whole hog barbecue, so don’t f*ck up and order something like smoked chicken. It’s good, but that’s an amateur move in Nashville. If BBQ isn’t your thing (weird but okay), skip that and head to what I feel is the best cafeteria-style meat and three place in town: Arnold’s Country Kitchen. Get the Mac and Cheese and the banana pudding, you can thank me later.
If hot chicken isn’t your thing and small plates, cocktails, and fancier sh*t is (I mean, on every bachelorette itinerary there’s a “nice” dinner night), Black Rabbit in the Printer’s Alley neighborhood in downtown is hella cool (and has amazing dishes ranging from rabbit rolls to the cutest, tiniest grilled quail), as is The Green Pheasant, which offers upscale modern Japanese dishes and sake so you can appreciate the drink you abused in college.
For brunch, you absolutely do not need to stand in line for two or three hours at Biscuit Love. Yah, it’s really good, but it’s biscuits fam—you can find a lot of them in this city and, like, in the south in general. Instead, head to Woolworth on 5th for a few really well executed brunch classics in a darling historic space, Pinewood Social for brunch, bowling, and a lot of breakfast cocktails (omg yayy), or The Southern for a blood orange mimosa (YAAAS) and an S.O.S. breakfast.
What To Do
There’s a lot of sh*t to do in Nashville and, depending how you want to spend the day, you can enrich yourself with culture or enrich yourself with alcohol and music! Really, the limit does not exist. Obviously, you can book one of the many, MANY drinking tours or pubcycles circling town, but I’d recommend doing that sh*t toward the afternoon since it tends to get hot and sitting on a moving, drinking tour bus sounds better than wandering the streets of Nashville in the heat.
First, you’ll want to stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s like, kind of touristy, but it’s pretty cool and you don’t even have to like country music to enjoy it. I mean, Elvis’ solid gold Cadillac is in there, and if that doesn’t make you feel bougie, IDK what will. I’d recommend doing this early in the day so that you have time for drinking and eating later.
If you’re cool with heading out of the city for a day, def check out Arrington Vineyards. It’s about 35 minutes outside Nashville and is owned by Kix Brooks of Brooks and Dunn. I’ll fully admit, I don’t know these people’s music, but I’m sure he’s yee-haw-tastic.
You’ll also definitely want to make time to pop in at Pinewood Social. We mentioned it for brunch, but this spot also has wading pools outside, the aforementioned bowling alley (reserve that sh*t WEEKS in advance, tho), and food at all hours.
You’ll also want to take a break from day-drinking at some point to shop. Nashville has a ton of cute boutiques, some of which are owned by celebs (omg, yay). Stop in at Draper James, Reese Witherspoon’s store in the 12 South area, or Uncommon James, Kristin Cavallari’s store in The Gulch. MODA Boutique in 12 South is also super cute, but really, any of the stores you stumble into are going to be hella adorable when you’re drunk (which you will be).
Where To Party
Ohhhhh boy. I mean, it’s the reason you came to Nashville, right? There are bars on bars on clubs on clubs in this city, so you need to pick the best ones and pace yourselves or else, before you know it, you’re passed out on a mechanical bull and a budding songstress is using you as a muse for her next single.
As a note, honky-tonks don’t have a cover charge, so you can hop from one to the other without feeling like you just wasted all your drinking money. Plus, it makes for less cash to carry around. The best thing about Nashville’s Lower Broadway area is that you can kind of wander into any honky-tonk and have a great time. They all have live music, cheap beer, and a spot to dance/stare at other people’s cowboy boots.
Most, if not all, bachelorette parties spend a ton of time on Lower Broadway—the go-to spot with lots of neon, shouting cowboys, and other bridal parties. There are a few that you absolutely must visit, though. Acme Feed & Seed is a classic stop you’re going to need to hit for great music, comfy chairs (great for when the room is spinning) and multiple floors of debauchery. Full disclosure: I was nearing blackout stage when we stopped here, but I remember it was like, super fun.
After that, Tootsies is a fav because a) the purple building is chill and easy to find when you’re stumbling around and b) it has a weird, fun vibe perfect for dancing and getting a lil sloppy. Robert’s Western World also needs to be on your list. It’s one of the only honky-tonks in downtown on Lower Broadway that locals will actually give the time of day, which tells you that the drinks, music, and flashing lights are not to be missed. Pro tip: if you’re drunk, eat one of the fried bologna sandwiches. They’re f*cking amazing.
While it’s still light out, you may also want to hit up some of the rooftop bars. There’s one at the Bobby Hotel that has some pretty legit tacos (seriously) and then there’s Rare Bird, part of the Noelle Hotel, which serves up some absolutely delicious cocktails while you look out over the small people below.
Friday, Day 1
- Land at Nashville International Airport
- Arrive at the hotel/Airbnb and unpack, chill for a few minutes, then head to Hattie B’s so you can grab a literal bite of hot chicken and cold beer. You won’t be able to eat enough to ruin your dinner, so it’s fine.
- Dinner (literally just order all the apps) and drinks at Merchant’s
- Walk across the street to Tootsies and then down the block a bit to Tequila Cowboy for the rest of the night
- Sleep in preparation for tomorrow.
Saturday, Day 2
- Well, howdy, bitches!
- Brunch at The Southern. Get a pitcher of the blood orange mimosas and start your day buzz, sweetie.
- Walk or Uber to The Country Music Hall of Fame and show some goddamn respect for country music while sipping out of a flask in the bathroom. You can also hit the Nashville Farmers Market if you’re hipsters that love fine crafts and food.
- Time for lunch and afternoon drinks at Pinewood Social. Dip your feet in the pool or hit the bowling lanes (must reserve in advance).
- Head back to the hotel/Airbnb to get ready for a nice dinner at The Green Pheasant where you’ll all wear black dresses and the bride wears a white dress and everyone secretly hates you.
- The time has come to take over Lower Broadway (aka LoBro). Start the night at Rare Bird‘s rooftop bar, then meander to Robert’s Western World. From there, head into whichever bar seems to have the most people in it and wherever the music sounds best. Bonus points if you find a mechanical bull and get the bride to ride it.
- Stumble back to the hotel/Airbnb and sleep it off, sweetie.
Sunday, Day 3
- Brunch at Sun Diner where you think hard about life and the choices you’ve made. Also, you learn that sunglasses can really go with anything, as can biscuits.
- Head back to the hotel/Airbnb to pack and trek to the airport.
- Call out sick from work tomorrow. You’re gonna need a day (or three) to recover
Images: Shutterstock; Instagram (8)
Planning sucks, and bachelorette parties are a ton of work. So we’re taking all the guesswork out of planning a bachelorette party by breaking down top bachelorette destinations. Our guides will tell you where to stay, eat, party, how to get around, and give you a sample itinerary that you can follow. You’re welcome. Here’s our Betches Bachelorette Guide to Montreal.
When you think of Montreal, you might not automatically associate it with a bachelorette party. But unlike Cabo or Las Vegas, Montreal is the perfect destination for your last single ladies’ getaway. Why? The shopping is killer, the food is amazing, and you won’t be the 300th bachelorette party to walk into the strip club that night. While you won’t necessarily spend your time sitting by a pool, the nightlife in Montreal is amazing and I can guarantee you’ll be saying “oui oui” to all the free shots. So here is our official Betches bachelorette guide to Montreal! Bon voyage!
How To Get There
There are a few ways to get to beloved Montreal. As a kid, I grew up driving or taking the train from Toronto. But since gas prices are skyrocketing, I’d suggest opting for a different method (you’ll thank me when you’re v hungover at the end of the weekend). While training can take 5 hours from Toronto, it’ll cost you under $200 Canadian (aka $150 American). If you’re a Betch on a budget, this is a steal. But while this may be your cheapest option, if you’re traveling from anywhere other than Toronto, I’d suggest flying to cut your travel time significantly. Flying from Toronto to Montreal takes just over an hour and can be as cheap as a train ticket. Good news for the New York ladies, a flight to Montreal will set you back only $220 US or so and will take an hour and a half. The choice is ultimately yours, but to make the most of your Montreal getaway, sometimes paying a little more is worth it.
Where To Stay
When choosing somewhere to stay, we suggest weighing the price, the location, and the experience equally. While we all want to save a few bucks, opting to stay an hour away from downtown because it’s cheaper is gonna be a b*tch to get to and from. This bachelorette guide to Montreal recommends finding an Airbnb in (or near) downtown. Having a place of your own for the weekend is super convenient instead of running between hotel rooms. Also, it’ll be fabulous when it comes to your pregames and the grumpy couple next door isn’t filing noise complaints. But with that being said, options can be limited, so staying in a hotel is not the end of the world. One of our favorites is Hotel 10.
It’s the perfect place to stay for your bachelorette party. It’s not overpriced. It’s located near downtown so there are tons of bar options and 24-hour places to get food. It also is attached to its own bar, BLVD 44, and huge terrace where parties are frequently happening.
How To Get Around
If you plan to stay downtown, your best option for transport is definitely on foot. But if you’re wearing stilettos or too drunk to walk straight, hop in a car. Taxis frequently roam the streets of Montreal so it won’t be difficult to catch one, but if Uber is more your style (because they take USD and you can easily split rides), they’ve got you covered. Take note: Lyft is not a thing in Montreal. If you are looking for a real adventure, try to navigate the subway system or organize a party bus—preferably with a stripper pole.
Where To Eat
The options of where to eat in Montreal are endless. But whatever you choose, make sure you have at least one Montreal smoked meat sandwich (Schwartz’s Deli is a classic and a 3-minute walk from Hotel 10) and a dozen fresh Montreal bagels. Since you’ll all likely be v hungover from the night before, stick to grabbing breakfast in your hotel or keeping some bagels around. If you do feel up to it, my all-time favorite breakfast spot, Beauty’s Luncheonette, is just a 7-minute drive away.
But if you decide to skip breakfast, your lunch and dinner spots are even more crucial. Flyjin a great option. This Japanese restaurant turns into a bar with a DJ after hours, so plan to eat late and stay even later.
Other favs are Joverse, Lov (as a vegan option), Bord’Elle Boutique Bar and Eatery, and Kampai Garden. If you’re only going to take one suggestion, you NEED to go to La Champagnerie. With a bachelorette party special package, this bar and restaurant have an extensive champagne list that you’re guaranteed to find something you love (unless you hate champagne, then bye).
Where To Spa
Hands down the best spa in the city is Bota Bota. With its relaxing vibes, tons of treatment options, and special prices for first time and group visits, they’ll have everything you need to counteract all the drinking you’ll be doing. It’s the perfect place to relax before your big day with your best gals.
Where To Party
One thing Montreal does not lack in is their party life. Clandestino, Candi Bar, Nhåu, Mayfair, and Terrasses Bonsecours are all great options when looking for somewhere to go party until the early morning. Rule of thumb: don’t forget to wear some sort of bridal accessories because you’ll get a ton of free stuff (i.e., drinks and cover). Milk your bachelorette party, Betches’ orders.
Nighttime Entertainment
If you’re down for a slightly different experience, visit Cabaret chez Mado’s, your Montreal drag queen bar for a show that will definitely make you laugh. No bachelorette party guide is complete without a few strip club recommendations. When in Montreal, you need to attend the best club in the city. Chez Parée is the best, but it’s a female strip club. If you’d rather see some men dance (Magic Mike style), visit Stock Bar. They offer shower shows on the weekend. Not sure what that means, but I’m intrigued.
Friday Day 1
Pro tip: Arrive as early as possible, since you already called in sick to work and have the hold day off. Since you’ll only be away for the weekend, make the most of it trip.
- Arrive into Montreal
- Explore Old Port of Montreal. Grab a bite, walk around, go on the Ferris wheel to see 360 views of the city.
- Head to Bota Bota for some R ‘n R at the spa
- Get ready at your place for dinner
- Dinner at Kampai Garden
- Pregame at the house/hotel and head to Bord’Elle Boutique Bar & Eatery
Saturday Day 2
Pro tip: Sleep in and drink lots of water. Before heading to your first activity, pick up a Gatorade.
- Axe throwing at Rage Montreal (if you have matching shirts, now’s your chance to wear them)
- Lunch and day drinking at Terrasses Bonsecours
- Head back to your place for a much-needed nap (you’ll thank me later)
- Dinner at La Champagnerie
- Hit the bars
Sunday Day 3
Pro tip: Since you slept in yesterday, I’d suggest heading out for a proper breakfast before your final day.
- Breakfast at Beauty’s Luncheonette
- Head back “home” (aka the hotel/Airbnb) and throw on your bathing suit
- Beach club day (or pool) party
- Head back for showers, naps, and possibly definitely more drinks
- Dinner and drinks at Flyjin
- Optional: head to a different bar after Flyjin has turned over to a night scene
Monday Day 4
Pro tip: Email work that you still have the “flu.”
- Travel home and pray you don’t puke on the way.
Whatever you do in Montreal, just make sure the bride doesn’t say the only French phrase she knows to random people on the street: “voulez-vous coucher avec moi?” Unless, of course, you don’t want a wedding to happen.
Images: stock_bar
