Entertainment Epicenters Across the USA

Experience some of the country’s best theater, music, family fun and nightlife at these hot spots.

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Posing for a photo in front of the Las Vegas, Nevada, welcome sign

Published

June 10, 2025

From iconic cities to lesser-known gems, each of these locales offers a unique blend of local culture and fun, including vibrant food scenes, live-music venues, historical landmarks, can’t-miss shopping districts and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re watching Broadway’s elite performers take center stage in New York City, exploring the bars and patios of Austin’s music-filled streets or spotting famous sites and people in Hollywood, these places reveal creativity, culture and ultimate fun.

Broadway Theater District

Dazzling sets, elaborate costumes and captivating stories come together to create the magic of live theater. With more than 40 venues and a star-studded history, New York City’s Broadway Theater District is the pinnacle of the performing arts. Stroll beneath the bright lights and billboards of famous playhouses in midtown Manhattan and share the unforgettable experience of watching elite entertainers in rollicking musicals and heart-wrenching dramas. After the show, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants in Times Square and relive the show’s memorable moments. For history and behind-the-scenes insights, check out the Museum of Broadway in Times Square.

New York City, New York

Beale Street

Live music, from blues and soul to rock ‘n’ roll, pours out of the doors of clubs in this vibrant historic district in Memphis, Tennessee. Legendary musicians have been performing along Beale Street for more than 150 years. Bask in the glow of the street’s signature neon signs as you wander three blocks of clubs, galleries and restaurants. Step inside to hear acclaimed musicians and tomorrow’s stars, then grab a photo with your favorite musician’s marker along the Brass Notes Walk of Fame. The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Elvis Presley’s Graceland and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music are other must-sees in Memphis.

Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee; Credit: Raphael Tenschert

Las Vegas Strip & Fremont Street

There’s no place quite like Las Vegas, Nevada. The iconic Las Vegas Strip is an entertainment destination that sparkles with glimmering lights, electric nightlife and distinctive architecture. Dine at celebrity-helmed restaurants, splurge at luxurious casino resorts and be transported by concerts and other stunning performances. Catch a short ride to the historic downtown area, where the Fremont Street Experience – a five-block entertainment district – awaits with free concerts, street performers and a 12-story zipline. After all that, you might assume that Vegas sleeps during the day, but you’d be wrong. Watch sporting events, explore museums and shops, and unwind at lavish pools and spas.

Fremont Street in Las Vegas, Nevada

Hollywood & West Hollywood

As Los Angeles’ iconic cinema and pop-culture neighborhoods, Hollywood and West Hollywood are essential stops on any California trip. Explore Hollywood’s walkable streets lined with famous landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theater and the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame. Then, travel through filmmaking history on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Nearby, West Hollywood warmly welcomes you to its three famous areas: the Design District, known for its art galleries and luxury shopping; Santa Monica Boulevard, filled with gay-owned bars and celebrity-loved restaurants; and the Sunset Strip, a legendary hub of nightlife with rooftop bars, comedy clubs and live music venues.

Lake Hollywood Park in Los Angeles, California; Credit: LA Tourism

Austin’s Live Music Scene

Lauded for its legendary music scene, Austin, Texas, calls itself the Live Music Capital of the World – and at its heart, you’ll find Sixth Street, Rainey Street and South Congress Avenue. These high-energy districts radiate music from restaurants, bars and patios every day of the week. On Rainey Street, historical bungalows turned social venues offer no shortage of entertainment from karaoke nights and jazz brunches to local musicians and festivals. Sixth Street serves up an array of laid-back neighborhoods, hip clubs and chic cocktail spots across three distinct scenes: Old Sixth Street, East Sixth Street and West Sixth Street. South Congress is a buzzy neighborhood featuring unique boutiques, acclaimed restaurants and trendy venues showcasing live music nightly.

Far Out Lounge on South Congress in Austin, Texas; Credit: Roger Ho

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

About an hour northwest of Madison, Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Dells earns its nickname, “The Waterpark Capital of the World,®” with the largest concentration of outdoor and indoor water parks on the planet. From speedy water slides and refreshing wave pools to a record-breaking lakeside oasis, this family-friendly destination inspires thrills year-round. Beyond the beach chairs, exciting adventures await you like winding mountain coasters, Witches Gulch slot canyon and skill-testing escape rooms. Downtown, you’ll find exceptional supper clubs, craft breweries and an array of shopping options. Don’t miss free entertainment and events in Elm Street Plaza – the mural wall is a top selfie spot.

Witches Gulch slot canyon in the Wisconsin Dells

Charlotte Amalie

A rich mix of West Indian, African, European and American influences, the U.S. Virgin Islands embraces diversity in every aspect. In Charlotte Amalie, the islands’ largest city on St. Thomas. Taste it in the local cuisine that spans the globe, like Spanish tapas, spiced Caribbean specialties and Cajun-seasoned dishes. Hear it in the dance clubs of the Frenchtown neighborhood or the captivating sounds of Quelbe and Calypso music. Experience it in the eclectic boutiques of the breezy Palm Passage, at the artisan kiosks along the waterfront or historical artifacts and fascinating stories of the Pirates Treasure Museum.

Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

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