Turning 21 is a huge milestone and often considered the most exciting birthday before stepping into real adulthood. Along with planning a fantastic celebration, it’s also a good idea to start thinking about setting up an emergency fund to show you’re ready for adult responsibilities. This makes it totally worth going all out to celebrate your new legal drinking age. For an unforgettable 21st birthday that stands out (once the haze of drinks settles), consider booking a trip to some thrilling cities that cater to both new and seasoned drinkers.

New York City seems like it was made for bar hopping. Getting around Manhattan and its surrounding areas is super easy thanks to a reliable public transportation system, with trains running every five minutes during peak hours. With over 2,600 bars, pubs, and taverns, NYC offers endless options for a lively, unforgettable celebration. Any 21st birthday in this city will be long, loud, and incredibly freeing.