With so many of my friends turning 21, I can't help to think about the best way to spend my 21st. Naturally, it needs to be booze-infused, so here are 21 awesome ways for you or your friends to have their first drink.
1. Prosecco Pong
For someone who likes to play drinking games, this is a slightly classier version. Pop a bottle of bubbly and break into teams to play this super Instagramable game!
2. Sugar Factory
I went to Sugar Factory a few years back and they have an amazing drink menu. Each of the drinks can be ordered virgin, meaning this is a good place to go if not all of your friends will be of age.
3. Boozy Brunch
Everyone loved brunch! Get all dressed up with your friends and go somewhere with a bottomless brunch that you've been dying to try. Oh and don't forget to take pictures.
4. Karaoke
If you are a little more outgoing than me, Karaoke could make for an awesome birthday party. It may be a little embarrassing, but hey you're only young once.
5. Bar Crawl
Although this idea involved a lot of traveling, it can be super fun. Try this Disney themed one if you are feeling especially young at heart.
6. Take a Bartending Class
I have always wanted to learn basic bartending. Is there any better opportunity than your 21st? Take a class with a few friends so you guys can have all the fun of going out without leaving the house.
7. Wine Tasting
If you are someone who hasn't had much experience with alcohol before turning 21, this is a great option. You can try many different wines to get a sense of what you like, while also keeping yourself from getting sloppy.
8. Clubbing
This is probably the most classic way to spend your 21st, and its super fun if all your friends are 21. Get glam, charter a limo and have a great night!
9. VIP Area in a Concert
Many VIP areas in concert venues are 21+, so this will be your first opportunity to really enjoy that without the risk of getting kicked out. Get some good tickets and go see your favorite artist to celebrate.
10. Nail Bar
Hit up a nail bar and get your mani-pedi on with a few drinks. Many salons have popped up across NYC with bars inside so you can really relax.
11. Wine Glass Painting Class
Many art studios offer classes where you can paint and drink. Why not paint something festive that you will actually be able to use in the future and will remind you of your birthday.
12. Take a Cooking Class
Many cooking classes incorporate alcohol and drinking into the recipes. Learn to cook with your leftover wine, or learn what beer to pair your food with.
13. Spa Day
Have a relaxing day at the spa with friends. Pop a bottle of champagne to celebrate while having a soak in a mud bath.
14. Go to a Vineyard
Although this could be seen as very similar to a wine tasting, going to a vineyard would be a much better experience if there is one near you. Pack a picnic and have yourself a day.
15. Eat Wine Ice Cream
Who doesn't love ice cream? Now imagine how much better that ice cream would be infused with alcohol. Many companies have infused their ice cream flavors with alcohol, many of which are popping up in stores around NYC.
16. Beach Bar
The beach is my happy place, so imagine how much happier it would be if you could drink. Although it is normally illegal to drink on a public beach, you can go to a private beach with its own bar to enjoy responsibly.
17. Booze Cruise
They don't call it a booze cruise for anything. Last time I went on a party boat I was in 8th grade and it was super fun, and a great excuse to get dressed up.
18. See a Sports Game
Go see a favorite sports team and enjoy a $7 beer. If there is one day you don't have to watch your spending it's your birthday.
19. Food and Drink Tour
Again, this option involves more travel but gives you the opportunity to try food and drinks from all over the city for one flat fee, way cheaper than if you did it on your own.
20. Rooftop Bar
Get that classic rooftop bar Instagramture. If you are lucky enough to have a birthday in the warmer months, this is a great way to enjoy the weather and have fun.
21. Go to Vegas
If you have money to burn, plan a trip you will never forget (no matter how drunk you get) to Vegas. Remember what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
Now go plan an amazing bash! And remember to have fun, be safe and make good choices.