There’s one thing in life that’s constant: life’s what you make it, so let’s make it right (thanks Hannah Montana). Another thing that is what we make it: cocktails! Making a cocktail can be so versatile. You can add your favorite alcohols, simple syrups, fruit flavors. Legit anything…you name it, you add it (it’s your drink, so make it right)!
Ever wonder what the most popular cocktail is from all 50 states in the US? That’s what we’re here to talk about today!
We will briefly touch on each of the 50 cocktails, and maybe even a few honorable mentions!
Which signature cocktail will be the fave on this list? Let’s find out!
1. Alabama
Bellini
This is definitely one drink that can be customized to legit whatever fruits are in season. My personal favorite way to drink a Bellini is a Peach Bellini – they are made with two super simple ingredients: Prosecco wine and peach purée. Don’t have Prosecco? Try some Champagne!
2. Alaska
White Russian
I had actually never heard of White Russians until about a week and a half ago on my Dad’s birthday. He ordered a White Russian, and I was super intrigued. I tried it, and loved it. Here’s what to add and how to make it: vodka, Kahlúa, and cream. Coffee and alcohol? Yes please!
3. Arizona
Jack and Coke
This is potentially one of the simplest drinks on our list here. It’s made with two ingredients, one of them being something that some people would already have in their fridges. It’s, of course, made with Jack Daniels Whiskey and Coca Cola. Doesn’t even taste like you’re drinking alcohol.
4. Arkansas
Mojito
To me, this is definitely one of those cocktails that is an acquired taste. It’s main ingredient is mint, and if you don’t like to drink mint, then this drink won’t be for you. If you do like drinking mint, here’s how to make a classic mojito and what to add: mint, ice, lime, sugar, white rum, club soda!
5. California
Paloma
I’ve never heard of this one in particular before, but it does look super pretty! It consists of the following (classic) ingredients: salt, grapefruit, lime juice, sugar, tequila, and club soda. One of my favorite things in a drink is tequila. Next time I’ve got all these things together, Paloma it is!
Cocktails are so versatile and fun to drink and look at for that matter! Let’s see what five delicious and signature cocktails are up next!
What is your personal favorite cocktail to drink?
6. Colorado
Mimosa
This particular drink has been one of the most popular in quite a few states, so you’ll most likely see this one again. It’s the perfect brunch drink, so brunch must be popular in all of said states. It’s obviously made with orange juice and some champagne – customize the amounts how you’d like!
7. Connecticut
Coquito
What the heck is this?! I’ve never heard of it personally, but the name alone does sound super intriguing! Here’s what it (I’m sure) deliciously consists of: dark spiced rum, cinnamon, sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Sounds super delish to me! HBU?
8. Delaware
Manhattan
I’ve heard of these before, and personally, I’m into colorful tropical drinks, so while this one may not be for me, it may be for you! Not familiar with these? Well…they consist of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters – sounds like a classic to me, am I right?
9. Florida
Piña Colada
Of course this just had to be the signature cocktail for Florida! It’s super tropical, blended, and of course tastes best on a beach or walking around Disney World. Here’s what’s in it: ice, pineapple, pineapple juice, coconut cream, white rum, and dark rum! Yum!
10. Georgia
Mimosa
Here we are yet again with the Mimosa – a classic (brunch) favorite in quite a few states in our repertoire here. Since you already know what’s in a classic version of this delicious drink, try adding in some peach purée and garnish with some fresh sliced peaches for a Georgia vibe!
Every signature cocktail on this list can totally be customized however you like it! Don’t like the original classic flavors? Throw in a very “you” sort of twist to make it your own!
What do you just love to mix in with your drinks?! Fruity or fizzy!? Both?!
11. Hawaii
Mai Tai
How could we possibly talk about Hawaii’s most delicious signature drink without mentioning something with a Hawaiian name! These are the ingredients: white rum, orange curaçao, lime juice, orgeat, and dark rum. Only drink this inside of a pineapple or don’t bothering drinking it at all!
12. Idaho
Hot Buttered Rum
I’ve kinda heard tiny little rumblings about this sort of drink, but not really much at all to be honest. Upon research, a lot goes into it: dark brown sugar, unsalted butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove(s), salt, spiced rum, and boiling water – phew… Need a breath yet?!
13. Illinois
Margarita
While the margarita was originally invented by a Texan, it’s certainly made it’s way to being Illinois’ classic signature cocktail. It is possibly the most customizable cocktail on this list. I love them frozen as opposed to on the rocks! A classic recipe includes Tequila, lime juice, and Cointreau!
14. Indiana
Tequila Sunrise
First of all, this is probably the prettiest drink and the drink that most resembles its actual name, am I right? Here’s what is inside of such a beautiful drink over here: Tequila, orange juice, and grenadine – perfect for those new to alcohol or just mixed drinks in general!
15. Iowa
Fuzzy Navel
First of all, I absolutely love this name – never heard of one, but it definitely makes me wanna drink one for myself, that’s for dang sure. Here’s how to make one and what exactly to add into it: peach schnapps and orange juice. Wow – the simplest drink on our list? Oh, I definitely think so!
We’re definitely making some decent headway on this list over here. Cocktails, cocktails, and certainly more cocktails galore, right?! Which cocktail have you never even tried before?!
Let’s chat: what’s your most fave thing to drink at brunch?
16. Kansas
Wine Cooler
You can normally make one of these at home with some pretty cheap ingredients. This is probably something that we’ve all tried before at a family party, this is a drink that can be made cheap, easy, and delicious all in one big ole glass – what could be better than that?!
17. Kentucky
Mint Julep
Of course we couldn’t talk about Kentucky without mentioning a Mint Julep – this drink is not only a signature to the state itself, but also a signature of The Kentucky Derby! Here’s what’s in one of them: sugar (or a simple syrup), water, Bourbon, and mint leaves.
18. Louisiana
Daiquiri
Yet another frozen drink! This particular type of drink is my personal fave – frozen. Whether it’s Winter or Summer they are delicious aren’t they (Daily’s is a good store-brand as well)?! Here are the ingredients for a more classic flavor profile: light rum, lime juice, demerara sugar syrup.
19. Maine
Rusty Nail
First of all, just straight ew…I’ve never heard of this one and just the name alone would make me not wanna order one. But anyways, nonetheless, let’s learn more about what’s in one and how to make them: scotch and Drambuie (honey flavored sort of Scotch whiskey). Sounds strong to me!
20. Maryland
Mimosa
Here comes the Mimosa yet again…only this time we landed in Maryland! Unfortunately, Maryland doesn’t have an official state fruit, but their official state dessert, which not all states have, is called a Smith Island Cake – yellow cake with fudge frosting – so enjoy a Mimosa along with it!
If none of the above cocktails have sounded good to you thus far, then be sure to stay tuned because we are just about getting to the halfway mark over here! Sit back and enjoy!
Let’s chat: why are mixed drinks so good – the bubbles or the sweetness?!
21. Massachusetts
Painkiller
I’ve never personally heard of this particular drink before, but I’m sure that the name definitely makes sense with this one over here. Here’s what inside a classic version of this super delish drink: rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut – ooh!
22. Michigan
7 and 7
This particular drink sounds like something so simple – something that only takes two measly ingredients to make – some of which you may already have somewhere in your home right now at the moment. Those two ingredients go as follows: Seagram’s Seven Crown and 7-Up Soda – yum!
23. Minnesota
White Russian
Here we go yet again with the White Russians! This is something that I could almost see being marketed as more of a dessert drink, but a super delicious one nonetheless. Here are the ratios of each classic ingredient: 2 parts vodka, 1 part coffee liqueur, and finally 1 part cream – delish!
24. Mississippi
Old Fashioned
Such a classic drink if you ask me. While I’ve never personally had the classic version of this particular drink, I have had different flavored ones, all of which have been extremely delicious. Here’s the classic recipe version: sugar, bitters, water, and bourbon – simple enough, right?!
25. Missouri
Margarita
Here we go – twins with Illinois, am I right?! While we already know the classic version of this delicious mixed drink cocktail, here’s a fruity watermelon-y twist on it nonetheless: Tequila, watermelon (duh), Triple Sec, lime juice, limes, honey, ice, and salt! Drinks and bottoms up!
We are halfway through this delicious and thirst-quenching list over here! We’ve had some delicious classic recipes, some fruity twist options to some, and just some straight up delicious that I’m sure that absolutely no one would even have the mere chance to resist! Continue to dig into the second half with us – drinks and bottoms up, y’all! Super enjoy!
Which mixed drink cocktail has surprised you the most (thus far)?! Let’s chat!
26. Montana
Dark and Stormy
Now, I’ve heard of a Stormy Night (Martini) before, but that is totally different than a Dark and Stormy, let me tell ya. Here’s what it consists of compared to a Stormy Night (Martini): rum, lime juice, and ginger beer. I love ginger beer – gonna try this one!
27. Nebraska
Moscow Mule
Speaking of ginger beer, this is the ultimate drink for those fellow ginger beer lovers much like myself. The recipe itself is super similar to a Dark and Stormy as previously discussed, but the classic copper glass says it all! Here’s what’s in a classic one: vodka, lime juice, ice, and ginger beer.
28. Nevada
Shirley Temple (A.K.A. “Dirty Shirley”)
We all know what these are, and if you don’t, then welcome to our list, Patrick Star, how’s the rock been treating you? Anyways the virgin version of this is just the following four ingredients: Sprite, cherries, ice, and grenadine. Wanna make a Dirty Shirley (adult version)? Just add vodka!
Honorable Mention
Tom Collins
Upon doing some research over here, a Tom Collins came in a very close second to the Shirley Temple/Dirty Shirley up above. Here’s what a Tom Collins consists of, so you can make one for yourself from your home: gin, fresh lemon juice, club soda, orange slices, a maraschino cherry!!
29. New Hampshire
Gin and Tonic
This drink was first made popular by the British colonies, and quickly made its way over to the states quite quickly actually. Unfamiliar with this particular thirst quencher? Here’s how to make one and what to add into it: gin, fresh lime juice, tonic water, lime wedge/slice, and ice (of course)!
30. New Jersey
Long Island Iced Tea
This particular drink is something that is very strong, from what I’ve heard. I’ve seen fruity versions of this that I think would taste absolutely amazing, but here’s what is in a classic LIIT: vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec (orange liqueur), sweet/sour mix, cola, and a single lemon slice!
Cocktails are so versatile. Don’t like what a classic recipe has to offer? Add in your own flare to it because guess what? It doesn’t matter – it’s your drink, so make sure to make yourself happy!
What’s your fave category of drinks?! Martinis, Margs, or Daqs?! Let’s chat!
31. New Mexico
Piña Colada
Yep! Here we are yet again for a classic mixed and blended drink that we already met with back in Florida from state number nine! While you already know the classic recipe, here’s a pretty neat twist on one nonetheless: add in some delicious (and gorgeous) Blue Curacao – it’ll be awesome!
32. New York
Vodka Fizz
Never personally heard of this one before today, however it does sound simple enough to make at home without having to go to a store for more than a thing or two: here’s what to add and how to make one for yourselves at home: club soda, vodka, simple syrup, and lime juice – yummo!
33. North Carolina
Vodka Martini
With only three essential ingredients, here’s how to make some adult water as I like to call it: ice, vodka, dry vermouth, and peeled lemon zest for a delicious and sour garnish. Wanna make it a dirty martini? Add in some green olives (plain or bleu cheese-stuffed) and sip back and enjoy!
34. North Dakota
Sex on the Beach
This drink not only looks pretty, but it legit does look like a beach, and I’m sure it tastes just like one when you picture it in your head (or so I think – I’ve never personally had one). Here’s what’s you need for one: vodka, peach schnapps, crème de cassis, orange juice, and cranberry juice!
35. Ohio
Shandy
I never knew that this was an actual drink and not a version of Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy line (which is super delicious nonetheless, now let me tell ya). Here’s what’s in one, and if you don’t like it, then I don’t know what you will: beer and lemonade! I don’t like beer, but this one is great!
This large list of drinks is nothing to sneeze at. There have been fruity drinks, coffee-flavored drinks, sweet drinks, ‘savory’ types of drinks, and just about anything and everything else in between nonetheless – therefore and that being said, there is something for any and all to enjoy, so be sure to do just that and drinks/bottoms up, y’all!
Why are mixed drinks and/or cocktails just so delicious?
36. Oklahoma
Bellini
Much like citizens of Alabama, citizens of Oklahoma certainly know a good Bellini when they see one…or drink one for that matter. The state fruit of Oklahoma is strawberries, so instead of a classic peach variety, try adding in some strawberry pureè and call it a day!
Honorable Mention
Long Island Iced Tea
Upon doing some further research over here, it was found that the second place drink from Oklahomans turned out to be a Long Island Iced Tea, much like the people of New Jersey as well. Again with the strawberries, try adding in some of that particular flavored liqueur and sip up!
37. Oregon
Lemon Drop Martini
Martinis are so versatile, as I’ve had many different versions myself (all at separate times of course, so don’t fret about me over here). Here’s what’s in a classic Lemon Drop that kinda makes it look like an adult lemonade in a fancy glass: vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, & simple syrup. Yum!
38. Pennsylvania
Pimm’s and Lemonade
Now, while I’ve personally never heard of this particular drink, it does remind me of the movie Ant Man / Ant Man & The Wasp with Mr. Pimm and his special lab (totally not what the drink is named after). Here’s what’s in one: Pimms No. 1, chilled carbonated lemonade, mint leaves, cucumber, orange slices, and hulled and halved strawberries. Enjoy, folks!
39. Rhode Island
Dark and Stormy
Much like Montana, Rhode Islanders must know what’s up because they’re cocktail twins with the Big Sky state (hey, Ronald). Since we already know what’s in a classic recipe, here’s how to add a simple little twist to one of them: replace the lime juice with some blood orange juice for color too!
40. South Carolina
Gin Fizz
This looks like yet another version of an adult lemonade and let’s be truly honest over here, we’re totally and definitely not mad about it one tiny bit am I right? Here’s how to make the drink with a beer like fizz and foam layer for us all: gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg whites, and club soda!
We are officially in the home stretch with the list of signature and most United States style popular cocktails over here – we’re officially in the Final Ten, and boy has our thirst been quenched, let me tell ya! Welcome to the Final Ten, sit back, sip back, and enjoy the rest of the ride, y’all!
What state’s cocktail are you most looking forward to coming up? Let’s chat!
41. South Dakota
Screwdriver
We all should know what one of these is, but if for some reason you don’t, I’d kinda like to call it a Mimosa type drink, but on some serious steroids. Here’s how to make one and exactly what to add into one of them as well: orange juice and vodka. Take that champagne – vodka’s in town to play!
42. Tennessee
Jack and Coke
Much like Arizona, Jack and Coke’s a real tried and true favorite of Tennesseans. I mean, come on haven’t ya heard of some delicious and classic Tennessee Whiskey?! Here’s how to make a variety of a classic fave for many: add in Sherry, Fernet Branca, and orange for an Old Fashioned style!
Honorable Mention
Bushwacker
Research showed that a Bushwacker was a tried and true second place signature cocktail of Tennessee. Here’s what the crazy name entails and how to make one: aged rum, Kahlua (coffee omg yum yes sign me up please), creme de cacao, cream of coconut, milk, and ice! Enjoy it up!
43. Texas
Mojito
Arkansas’ favorite cocktail was also a Mojito. While it’s classic recipe entails lots of different mint flavors, here’s how to put a tiny little twist on it and make it your own at home of course with my personal favorite fruit, Blueberries: add in some fresh blueberries for added color and flavor!
44. Utah
Rickey
I only know someone with the name Rickey, not a cocktail; however, it does sound similar to ones we’ve already discussed, but here it is and all of its ingredients in their glory: gin, club soda, and lime juice. Want a twist? Add in some strawberry simple syrup to make it just sweet enough!
45. Vermont
Cosmopolitan
This drink is pretty, it’s tasty, and it’s also the name of my most favorite casino out in Las Vegas that legit has everything you could think of, including Egg Slu*, a late night only breakfast place. Here’s how to make a super delish one: citrus vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, and cranberry juice!
We are officially at the Final Five now! Still haven’t found a cocktail that tickles your fancy just quite yet, stay tuned for our tried and true Final Five over here because they’re all good ones!
Here are the final five signature cocktails! Which was your all-time favorite?
46. Virginia
Dark and Stormy
Montana and Rhode Island are the other two in this group of triplets in the category of Dark and Stormies. We know the classic recipe’s been done to death; here’s a variety to make one, besides the Blood Orange variety from Rhode Island: add in some tart cherry juice and grenadine for a Halloween sort of twist to it – kinda like you’re drinking a glass of smoky blood, right?!
47. Washington
Sea Breeze
This particular cocktail is personally something that I’ve never tried before, let alone ever even heard of in the first place at all over here. Here’s how to make one and what to add on into one as well: crushed ice, vodka, cranberry juice – try the OceanSpray brand, and grapefruit juice as well! Yum!
48. West Virginia
White Russian
Alaska and Minnesota are the other two in this group of triplets in the category of White Russians. we know the classic recipe, but here’s a delicious variety nonetheless to try at home of course: try adding in some cinnamon sticks and Oregon chai for an adult chai tea latte! Yumm-oh!
49. Wisconsin
Old Fashioned
Much like Mississippi, Wisconsin must know what’s up because they share a state-wide favorite signature cocktail, am I right? While we know the classic version, here’s how to make a variety version of such an old-timed classic cocktail mixed drink: add in maple syrup and a cocktail cherry!
50. Wyoming
Whiskey Sour
I’ve only heard of Whiskey Sours, but never actually tried one or really knew anyone else in my own personal circle who had or has tried one in the past. Here’s how to make one and what to deliciously add on in to it: bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, maple and/or simple syrup, and finally for some garnished, orange peel pieces and cocktail cherries nonetheless!
What did you personally think of our top signature cocktails from each of the fifty states in the US, and then some tried and true honorable mentions as well? Let’s chat down below in comments!