So your best friend has just asked you to be his best man. Congratulations! Except now you’re struggling to think of some creative bachelor party ideas to fête the groom. No sweat—we’ve rounded up a few that skip the usual booze fest in favor of something more enticing. Start thinking outside the box, because our bachelor party ideas have more going for them than a guaranteed hangover. (Though if that’s your thing, go for it.)

If...he likes learning new things

Then...master the art of mixology

Yes, liquor is involved, but in a classy way. After meeting for dinner at the groom’s favorite restaurant, head to a mixology class. You’ll learn how to build a drink, when to shake and when to stir, and what bitters are for.

• Party idea: Crash at somebody’s house that night and test out your newfound knowledge with a fresh stock of booze, garnishes, mixers, and shakers.

• Take it to the next level: As a group, create a custom cocktail that the groom and his future spouse can serve at their wedding—don’t forget to give it a memorable name.

If...he’s a low-key homebody

Then...host a BYOB game night

Who’s up for Settlers of Catan, or an old-school game of Risk? Or maybe the groom is more of a video gamer. Choose a creative bachelor party idea that respects his love of the game: flex those thumbs and invite the stag party crew over for a spirited night of friendly competition.

• Party idea: Ask everyone to bring their favorite craft beer, then break out some board games or fire up the Xbox. Make sure you have plenty of non-liquid fuel on hand in the form of pizza and snacks.

• Take it to the next level: If the groom is one who gets excited about the next big game, try to snag a new release. It’ll add an extra element of surprise to his big night.

If...he’s an outdoorsman

Then...get back to nature (wherever you are)

If he fancies himself a back-to-the-land kind of guy—or he’s just really, really into his beard—indulge his affection for Mother Nature with an adventurous, outdoorsy bachelor party. Find a picturesque nearby locale, whether that’s on a lake or in the mountains, and set up camp there for the weekend.

• Party idea: Look into rafting or rock climbing excursions in the area to strengthen your muscles and the bonds of brotherhood.

• Take it to the next level: Break out the lumberjack plaids and take the stag party to a cabin in the woods, where you can split wood, knock back some brews, and maybe even charter a fishing trip to see who can nab the most impressive catch.

If...he’s a foodie

Then...try a taste of something new

Somehow your best friend always knows about the next buzzworthy restaurant before everyone else does. Or maybe he’s discovered the secret to killer guacamole. Either way, give the gourmand groom what he really wants: a chance to use the word “umami” in a sentence.

• Party idea: Skip the crazy-expensive Michelin-starred new restaurant and head to a local street fest. You’ll discover offbeat places to put on your culinary bucket list, and everyone will get a chance to indulge their individual appetites.

• Take it to the next level: Rent a shuttle bus and hit up a few wineries. Opt for ones that serve upscale small plates along with select pours from the cellar, and compare notes on each flight.

If...he secretly wishes he was Louis CK

Then...go to a comedy show

Whether his comedic timing is impeccable or could use some refinement, indulge his love for the funny stuff with a night out at a comedy club.  

• Party idea: Get group tickets to an improv show, and let the troupe know there’s a bachelor in the crowd when they ask for audience suggestions. And don’t forget about the two-drink minimum.

• Take it to the next level: Take him to see his favorite standup comedian, even if that calls for a weekend road trip. Watching HBO specials over and over is nothing compared to seeing his hero onstage.

If...he wants to keep it sober

Then...get everyone’s adrenaline pumping, instead

Trying to come up with sober bachelor party ideas doesn’t have to be a dead-end. In fact, there are plenty of activities that are strictly no-alcohol, yet still a blast.

• Party idea: Take the crew to an archery range so they can try to best each other in front of the bull’s-eye. Or, if everyone’s game, sign up for a themed 5K together. Pick one with a meaningful charitable cause to have fun and give back at the same.

• Take it to the next level: Make one of the groom’s childhood dreams come true and sign him up to test-drive a Lamborghini. He’ll never, ever forget it, and you’ll cement your status as the best best man.