The Basics Drinking Out

7 Places You Can Legally Drink on the Street in the U.S.

Go ahead, take that drink with you as you walk down these fun-loving streets.

A street scene in Memphis

Douglas Sacha

There are few things better than strolling down the street with a cold drink in hand. Unfortunately, for a country founded on independence and freedom, the United States restricts this simple pleasure to a few dozen spots—and the laws aren’t always clear. Some towns allow public drinking anywhere within the town limits, while other municipalities only allow open containers in specific entertainment districts within the city. So, read those signs closely before you take a swig from your to-go cup.

These are seven libation-friendly locales, complete with details about what the laws allow and the best time of year to take that drink with you out on public streets.

  • Fredericksburg, Texas

    Drinking in Fredericksburg, Texas

    Stacy Lorraine / Fredericksburg Texas Online

    Founded by Germans in 1846, the small town of Fredericksburg, Texas, remains true to its roots. Located one and a half hours west of Austin, Fredericksburg allows the consumption of beer and wine (sorry, no liquor) on the streets of its shopping district.

    When to visit: Take part in the town’s German heritage celebration during Oktoberfest in early October. Highlights include a plethora of German foods, music and activities. The annual festival also offers an impressive selection of 65 domestic, imported and local craft beers.

  • Hood River, Oregon

    hood river signs including a welcome sign and a Tour Route sign

     Flickr / Jimmy Emerson DVM

    Known as a haven for outdoorsy types, this river town is also kind to drinkers. The law of the land in Hood River states that it’s perfectly fine to walk around with a beverage in hand. Want to buy a tall boy from the corner bodega and roam the sidewalks? No problem. The only exception is that you can’t take a drink purchased from a bartender out of the venue where it was served.

    When to visit: The annual Hood River Hops Fest is a paradise for beer lovers. The September event features more than 60 fresh-hop beers, regional wines and live music.

  • Las Vegas

    Las Vegas strip

    Getty Images / Roger Ressmeyer/Corbis/VCG 

    It’s only natural that Sin City allows visitors to take in the sights and sounds of the legendary gambling city while drinking. Of course, even America’s Playground has its restrictions. Open containers are limited to the Strip, and glass containers are a no-no.

    When to visit: Beat the desert heat by planning your visit for spring or fall. Also, aim for Tuesday through Thursday, as room rates tend to be cheaper during the week.

  • New Orleans

    mardi Gras revelers with a woman in the cetner in purple face point and a trumper player behind her

     Flickr / Infrogmation of New Orleans

    No list of boozy locales would be complete without the Big Easy. The legendary home to Mardi Gras earns its reputation as a hard-partying city by allowing people to openly drink anywhere in town, as long as you’re not carrying a glass container. Grab a handful of beads and an ice-cold brew, and let the good times roll.

    When to visit: Dive headfirst into the biggest party in the world by planning your visit to coincide with Mardi Gras, which often lands in February or March.

    Continue to 5 of 7 below.
  • Savannah

    Drinking in a park in Savannah

     Getty Images / Bruce Yuanyue Bi

    If you’ve ever been to Savannah, you know that the beauty of this idyllic seaport is limitless. You’ll find oak trees draped in Spanish moss, ornate fountains, cobblestone streets and a treasure trove of magnificent architectural styles. You’ll also discover that this quaint southern city has no open container laws. To get the full Savannah experience, relax with a cold one in Johnson Square Park.

    When to visit: Catch the grandeur of Savannah between March and July. This is the time of year when the flowers and trees will be in full bloom. It’s also prime festival season. We recommend the Savannah Music Festival, which usually takes place in late March and early April.

  • Sonoma, California

    Drinking outdoors in Sonoma, CA

     Getty Images / Judy Bellah

    It makes sense that one of America’s top wine towns would look the other way when it comes to enjoying a nice glass of wine in the park. Though you can’t drink openly everywhere in town, you can relax with your favorite alcoholic beverage in Sonoma Plaza, the only park in Sonoma that allows such indulgences.

    When to visit: The most popular time of year to visit wine country is June through October. Try the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, which is held in October. The annual event features world-class wines, craft beers and award-winning food.

  • Memphis

    Beale Street in Memphis

     Getty Images / Douglas Sacha

    Known for the blues, Elvis Presley and barbecue, Memphis is considered one of America’s great cultural institutions. The city’s legendary Beale Street also has the distinction of being exempt from the statewide ban on open containers, making this Tennessee town a must-visit for those who like to wet their whistle.

    When to visit: The annual Beale Street Music Festival held in May offers some of the biggest names in music. Looking for something a little quirkier? Opt for Elvis Week, held every August.