10 best places to celebrate St. Patrick's Day
St. Patrick's Day is that time of year when the world seems to embrace all shades of green, and cities across the globe light up with festivities that echo the heart and soul of Ireland.
It's not just about wearing green or enjoying a pint; it's about celebrating a rich cultural heritage that has transcended borders to bring people together in joyous communion.
From the traditional heartlands of Ireland to the bustling metropolises of the United States and beyond, each destination offers its own unique take on this cherished holiday.
Let's dive into the 10 best places to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, each with its own story to tell and experience to offer.
Dublin
Ah, Dublin. Where else to start but in the very heart of Ireland?
St. Patrick's Day here is nothing short of magical, a city-wide embrace of everything Irish. The streets become a living tapestry of green, white and orange, buzzing with energy and excitement.
Imagine a weeklong festival where the air is thick with the melodies of traditional Irish music, the streets are alive with parades and performances, and every pub is a doorway to camaraderie and tales of yore.
Dublin on St. Patrick's Day is not just a celebration; it's an experience, a chance to live and breathe Irish culture in its most authentic form.
TPG tip: Stay at The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton for around $251 or 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
New York City
New York, New York – the city where St. Patrick's Day is painted in broad strokes of green across the canvas of its streets.
The parade here is legendary, a grand procession that marches up Fifth Avenue, a vibrant spectacle of music, dance and Irish pride.
But the celebration doesn't stop at the parade; it spills into the city's many Irish pubs and neighborhoods, where the spirit of Ireland is alive and well.
Imagine sipping on an Irish stout while listening to a fiddle play, surrounded by new friends and old – that's St. Patrick's Day in New York City.
TPG tip: Book a room at Moxy NYC Times Square for around $290 or 58,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Related: The best hotels in New York City, from luxury stays to points properties
Boston
Boston holds a special place in the heart of Irish America, and on St. Patrick's Day, this connection is celebrated with gusto. The city's parade is a feast for the senses, a kaleidoscope of color and sound that winds its way through the streets of South Boston.
But beyond the parade, Boston's Irish spirit is palpable in its pubs, restaurants and squares, where the community comes together to celebrate its heritage.
TPG tip: Book a room at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston for around $752 or 50,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.
Related: The 16 best Four Seasons in the World, according to travel experts who have stayed at them.
Chicago
Chicago takes the green of St. Patrick's Day to a whole new level, with the annual dyeing of the Chicago River a spectacle in itself.
The city's parade is a vibrant celebration of Irish culture, but it's the sense of community and joy that truly defines the day.
Chicago's many Irish pubs become centers of festivity, offering a warm welcome and a cold pint to all who enter. It's a day when the Windy City comes alive with the spirit of Ireland, a testament to the enduring bond between the two.
TPG tip: Stay at The Drake for around $156 or 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Related: The 17 best Chicago hotels
Savannah, Georgia
In Savannah, St. Patrick's Day is infused with a Southern twist, blending Irish traditions with Georgian charm.
The city's parade showcases community and culture, set against the backdrop of historic squares and blooming azaleas. Imagine enjoying a day of music, food and fun under the warm Southern sun, where the hospitality is as plentiful as the Guinness.
TPG tip: Book a room at The Alida, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel for around $313 or 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
London
London may be a stone's throw from Ireland, but on St. Patrick's Day, it feels as though the heart of Ireland beats within its streets.
The parade here is a dazzling display of diversity, reflecting the many faces of the Irish diaspora. At the heart of it all, Trafalgar Square transforms into a festival hub where music dances in the air, and the scents of traditional Irish cooking tempt every passerby.
There's something for everyone, from toe-tapping tunes to activities that whisk kids away to a world of Irish folklore. And let's not forget the pubs! They're the real heroes, buzzing with tales, laughter and the clinking of glasses.
TPG tip: Stay at Hotel 41 for around $532 or 35,500 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.
Sydney
Down under in Sydney, St. Patrick's Day shines bright, a vibrant celebration of Irish culture against the backdrop of the Australian sun. The parade? Oh, it's a feast for the eyes, weaving through the city with a blend of flair and tradition that captures everyone's imagination.
Then, there's the festival — a smorgasbord of Irish culture where you can lose yourself in the lilting tunes of folk music or be mesmerized by dancers stepping to ancient rhythms. And it's not just about watching; there's a chance to dive in with crafts and activities that get hands moving and minds whirling.
TPG tip: Book a room at the Hyatt Regency Sydney for around $212 or 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Toronto
Toronto really rolls out the green carpet on St. Patrick's Day, transforming into a little slice of Ireland. The streets come alive with a parade that's more of a party on the move, splashing the city with all shades of green.
But it's not all about the parade; the whole city catches the Irish spirit. Pubs, parks and cultural spots buzz with foot-tapping tunes, captivating tales and games straight out of Ireland. It's like Toronto says, "Let's all be Irish today!"
TPG tip: Stay at Kimpton Saint George Hotel for around $201 or 32,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Tokyo
Tokyo might not be the first place you'd think to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, but the city embraces the holiday with enthusiasm and flair.
The parade here uniquely blends Irish and Japanese cultures, a colorful and joyful celebration that bridges continents. Local bars and restaurants join in, offering Irish-themed fare and drinks, creating a day of cultural exchange and festive fun that's genuinely one of a kind.
TPG tip: Book a room at Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills for around $875 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Related: The 11 best hotels in Tokyo for your next Japan getaway
Buenos Aires
In Buenos Aires, St. Patrick's Day turns the city into an electrifying mix of Irish green and Argentine zest. As dusk falls, the streets burst into life, pulsating with rhythms and moves that blur the lines between Buenos Aires' fiery soul and Ireland's hearty traditions.
It's a street party that dances its way into the night, showcasing just how universal St. Patrick's Day really is. Around every corner, there's a shared happiness, a vibe that connects people from all walks of life. It's proof that on this day, everyone's a little Irish.
TPG tip: Stay at Park Tower, a Luxury Collection Hotel for around $293 or 49,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
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| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
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| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
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There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
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Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.