Julie Epstein: For many travelers, the best test of an ideal destination is how it comes alive when the sun goes down. So for those party animals who spring to life in the wee hours, we bring the best nightlife scenes in the country.

Third on our list is the Los Angeles. And the city where entertainment is a way of life, it's no surprise that nightlife is a pretty big deal. Legendary clubs at the LA landscape and new hot spots seem to sprout up everyday. It can be a hassles move around the sprawling city. So make your way to West Hollywood, Santa Monica or Downtown and stake your claim. Our number two, Las Vegas is known for a lot of sinful fun. And it's quickly earning the reputation as a clubbing Mecca. Some of the country's most ambitious nightclubs reside inside vibrant casinos like the Palms. Whatever your vice, it can be found in Vegas. Just don't allow the city's carefree demeanor, coax you in to leaving too much money behind.

At the top spot on our list New York City is a no-brainer. Whether it's sipping cosmos and a trendy SoHo lounge, bar crawling in the East Village or just getting lost somewhere in Brooklyn, no destination has a wider variety of nightlife options.

Spend just one night here and you will understand why the big apple is known as the city that never sleeps. To see more of America's best nightlife destinations, check out the complete listing at travel.

usnews.

com.