Looking ahead to 2025 U.S. travel trends, it’s time to explore fresh adventures and unseen wonders right in our backyard. From the serene beaches of Sanibel Island to the bustling streets of Portland, Travel + Leisure’s “50 Best Places to Travel” list serves as your ultimate guide to the 2025 trending U.S. destinations.
As we explore these must-visit U.S. cities in 2025, each destination promises a unique blend of experiences tailored to diverse traveler profiles and interests. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a culinary connoisseur, these destinations provide a glimpse of American culture, scenery, and adventure. Here’s your guide to uncovering the unique charms and hidden gems that await in each city.
1. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Escape to the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior for an eco-adventure, one of the 2025 trending U.S. destinations. They feature 22 pristine islands dotted with historic lighthouses and dramatic sea caves perfect for kayaking expeditions. Nature enthusiasts seeking solitude should venture to the hidden gem of Quarry Bay on Stockton Island, where less-traveled trails and quiet beaches provide an intimate connection with the wilderness.
Time your visit during spring or early fall to enjoy cooler temperatures and minimal crowds. Don’t miss the vibrant Bayfield Apple Festival in October, where the local community celebrates the autumn harvest with regional crafts, live music, and delectable food stalls featuring the area’s renowned apple-growing heritage.
2. Portland, Oregon
Dive into Portland’s eclectic culture, from indie music venues to an evolving food truck scene. The city’s creative spirit shines brightest during First Thursday in the Pearl District when local artists and galleries welcome the public for an evening of artistic exploration, making it one of the best places to travel in the U.S. in 2025.
While most tourists flock to the International Rose Test Garden, don’t overlook the serene Peninsula Park Rose Garden, a hidden oasis showcasing magnificent blooms without the crowds. Best visited in the summer, when the city hosts numerous outdoor festivals and events, offering a lively street food scene and pleasant Pacific Northwest weather.
3. Colorado’s Western Slope
Discover the rugged beauty of Colorado’s Western Slope, a popular U.S. travel spot for 2025. Its extensive hiking and mountain biking trails are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.. Others find bliss among the tranquil alpine lakes and pristine forests of Grand Mesa, a local secret that offers peaceful solitude away from more frequented destinations.
Fall is a favorable time to visit, when aspen groves paint the landscape in shimmering gold, and crisp temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. September, especially, is an opportune time to experience the beloved Colorado Mountain Winefest in Palisade, where local vintners showcase their craft against a backdrop of mountain scenery.
4. San Antonio, Texas
Experience the blend of Mexican and Texan cultures at San Antonio’s River Walk — a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined with waterfront restaurants and boutique shops. Beyond the popular downtown area is the tranquil Mission Reach, a lesser-known extension of the River Walk perfect for cycling, peaceful walks, and kayaking.
Plan your visit between late winter and early spring to explore outdoor attractions, such as the city’s crown jewel event, Fiesta San Antonio, highlighting why it’s a must-visit U.S. city in 2025. In February, experience the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, featuring thrilling rodeo competitions and country music that highlight Texas culture.
5. San Diego, California
Enjoy the sun-kissed beaches and major attractions of San Diego, such as the world-famous San Diego Zoo and the USS Midway Museum, which anchors the city’s maritime heritage. For a less touristy spot, check out the historic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a hidden gem from 1912 that gently sways above a scenic canyon. This provides adventurous travelers with a unique view of the city’s dramatic landscape.
Early fall is the perfect time to visit this top U.S. destination in 2025 without the summer crowds and when the weather remains warm for beach lounging and city exploration. Join the Saturday buzz at the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, featuring artisanal vendors, fresh produce, and gourmet food. This experience perfectly captures San Diego’s laid-back lifestyle and diverse cultural influences.
6. Sacramento, California
Sacramento offers a rich mix of history, culture, and farm-to-fork dining, making it a trending travel location in the U.S. in 2025. Urban explorers can enjoy hidden public stairways for scenic views and architectural history, while history buffs engage with interactive exhibits and immerse in preserved buildings in the historic district of California’s capital.
If dining by the waterfront, exploring farmers’ markets, or visiting museums and parks are part of your itinerary, plan your visit in spring or fall. Memorial Day weekend adds extra charm with the Hot Jazz Jubilee, featuring jazz bands, lively parades, and vibrant performances throughout the city.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Wander the cobblestone streets of Charleston, a city that marries historical charm and contemporary allure, featuring cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions and innovative restaurants. This coastal gem is a must-visit U.S. city in 2025, with colorful magnolias and azaleas blossoming in spring and mild temperatures perfect for exploring the historic districts in the autumn.
Beyond the well-preserved antebellum architecture, Charleston boasts unique experiences like the Charleston Tea Garden on Wadmalaw Island, North America’s only tea garden, where you can see tea production and sample fresh brews. The city’s cultural highlights include the Spoleto Festival USA, which showcases world-class performing arts across historic venues, including opera, theater, dance, and jazz.
8. Sanibel Island, Florida
Relax on the tranquil beaches of Sanibel Island, a top destination for shell collectors who want to participate in the “Sanibel Stoop” ritual. For a more secluded experience, Bowman’s Beach offers abundant shelling and stunning sunset views away from Florida’s Gulf Coast crowds.
The best times to visit the island are late spring and early fall, especially for outdoor activities like cycling on the 25 miles of bike paths and bird watching at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. During your visit to this top U.S. destination in 2025, explore its rich heritage at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, which showcases preserved pioneer buildings that reveal the island’s journey from a fishing community to a natural sanctuary.
9. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s remarkable renaissance positions itself among the best places to travel in the U.S. in 2025. From its Motown roots to the innovative Detroit Auto Show, the city’s energy is palpable. The Detroit Institute of Arts attracts art lovers with its impressive collection, while The Belt serves as an open-air gallery downtown, featuring murals and installations by international artists.
The best times to visit are late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, perfect for enjoying the famous Detroit Jazz Festival. A visit wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Eastern Market on a Saturday, where local farmers, artisanal vendors, and live musicians showcase the city’s entrepreneurial spirit and community pride.
10. Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica represents the quintessential Southern California dream. With the iconic Pacific Park Ferris Wheel and historic pier that stretches into the Pacific Ocean, it is one of the top U.S. destinations in 2025. Late spring and early fall are ideal for visiting, offering great beach weather and fewer crowds. The city comes alive along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, locally known as “The Strand,” where cyclists and rollerbladers can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of beach volleyball courts and the famous Muscle Beach gym.
Nestled in Palisades Park, the Camera Obscura Art Lab offers a charming escape from the busy shoreline. It features optical experiences and art workshops. The Santa Monica Farmers Market, held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, showcases fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live cooking demos, offering an authentic taste of Southern California’s celebrated food culture.
11. Deer Valley, Utah
Head to Deer Valley for top-tier winter sports and luxury services in Utah’s Wasatch Range, featuring meticulously groomed slopes and renowned powder from December to April. The resort’s exceptional attention to detail includes attentive ski valets and well-maintained runs for all skill levels. For a quieter experience, explore the hidden gem of Empire Pass, with stunning mountain views and fewer crowds.
Deer Valley’s allure extends beyond the ski season, with the Deer Valley Music Festival highlighting this location as one of the 2025 trending U.S. destinations for year-round enjoyment. This celebrated event brings the magnificent sounds of the Utah Symphony alongside contemporary artists, creating magical evenings of world-class music under the stars, proving that the resort’s charm spans all seasons.
12. Universal Orlando, Florida
Explore the fantastical worlds of Universal Orlando, from the magic of Harry Potter to thrilling theme park rides. This entertainment destination in Florida is still a popular U.S. travel spot in 2025. It features two main parks — Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure — along with the tropical Volcano Bay water park. Experience the enchanting realms where you can enjoy butterbeer and ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Plan your adventures during the cooler months of late fall and winter, when shorter wait times for attractions like Jurassic World VelociCoaster enhance the experience. Enjoy the resort’s seasonal events, including the thrilling Halloween Horror Nights and the enchanting holiday celebrations that transform the resort into a winter wonderland with festive shows and decorations.
13. Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage’s unique blend of city comforts and wilderness adventures ranks it as one of the best places to travel in the U.S. in 2025. The long days and mild weather in the summer invite outdoor activities like glacier hikes and dog sledding. Nature lovers flock to Kincaid Park, a local favorite with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. It’s common to encounter a majestic moose or see bald eagles above as you explore.
The city’s vibrant cultural scene comes alive at the beloved Anchorage Market & Festival, transforming downtown weekends from May through September into a celebration of Alaskan heritage. Browse authentic Native crafts, sample local delicacies like fresh-caught salmon and wild berry preserves, and chat with talented artisans who capture the spirit of the Last Frontier in their work.
Takeaway
This guide, inspired by Travel + Leisure’s “Where to Go in 2025,” invites you to experience America’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Each captivating destination presents unique opportunities to create lasting memories, whether through historical exploration, culinary delights, or outdoor adventures. With this extensive list, you’ll have somewhere new to explore every month.
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