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Planning your 2026 getaway? You don’t have to travel far to experience an amazing vacation. In fact, there are countless destinations just a short drive or flight away that offer everything you might want in a destination—great weather, plenty of entertainment, and activities for every kind of traveler—without ever needing a passport.
To determine the top spots, TripAdvisor analyzed destinations that received an exceptional volume of above-and-beyond reviews from its community over a 12-month period. The result? A list of beachy favorites and crowd-pleasing cities that earned a Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title.
Here are the 10 most loved U.S. destinations for travelers.
10. Boston
There’s so much to love about this historic and charming city. Stroll the Freedom Trail, catch a ballgame at Fenway Park, then cross the Charles River to explore Cambridge and Harvard Square. Savor classic New England flavors—from iconic slices at Regina Pizzeria to buttery Maine lobster rolls at Neptune Oyster in the North End. And when you’re ready to venture beyond the city, ferries make it easy to visit Cape Cod and Salem for the full New England experience.
9. Washington D.C.
Spring is a great time to visit D.C. for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Wander the monuments and memorials along the National Mall, explore world-class museums at the Smithsonian Institution, then head to Georgetown for cobblestone streets and waterfront views. Savor D.C.’s food scene—from French brasserie classics at La Bonne Vache to creative, can’t-miss dishes at Rose’s Luxury. And when you’re ready to slow the pace, leafy neighborhoods like Dupont Circle and Capitol Hill make for the perfect afternoon stroll.
8. Key West, FL
Head south—all the way to the southernmost point of the continental U.S.—to Key West. Once home to literary legends like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop, Robert Frost, this island city feels like a nostalgic step back in time. Stroll palm-lined streets lined with pastel Victorian gingerbread houses and tin-roofed conch homes, sip Hurricanes while live music spills from open-air bars, or snorkel coral reefs just 90 miles north of Cuba. Before you leave, don’t miss a slice of the city’s signature Key lime pie (our rec: Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop).
7. Charleston, S.C.
Charleston is one of the most charming cities I've visited in the U.S. Stroll the cobblestone streets, where pastel-hued homes and historic row houses are decked out with flower-filled window boxes, overflowing greenery, and dreamy, plant-draped verandas. You can find delicious dining options like French-inspired Felix (loved), Husk (known for its Southern fare), or great-for-brunch Poogan's Porch. Early morning walks along the waterfront are a great way to start the day. Don't miss the chance to visit nearby beaches too, like Sullivan's Island, where celebs like Reese Witherspoon and Bill Murray reportedly own homes. The water’s so warm, it skips the whole “getting used to it” part.
6. Chicago
Architecture fans will love this city where Frank Lloyd Wright left his legacy. Take a breathtaking architectural tour along the Chicago River, shop upscale and mid-range boutiques along the Magnificent Mile, art gaze at one of many museums like The Art Institute of Chicago, and grab a slice of deep dish at Angelo's Stuffed Pizza or Bartoli's in Roscoe Village. Explore Chicago's Hippest Neightborhood Wicker Park too with our local guide. Prefer the serene charm of train travel? The California Zephyr is one of North America's most beautiful long-distance train rides. This iconic route runs between Chicago and San Francisco, taking you through the stunning, snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains, the dramatic peaks of the Rockies, and the plains of Nebraska. Pass through Denver and Salt Lake City and soak in views from the comfort of the panoramic train cars. This is an unforgettable way to witness the natural beauty of America's midwest.
5. New Orleans
Enjoy jazz, blues, gospel, and more at the New Orleans Jazz Fest (April 23-May 3) and explore this iconic city. Try Commander’s Palace for upscale Creole classics or Willie Mae’s Scotch House for award-winning fried chicken. Sip cocktails at The Carousel Bar or indulge in a Sazerac at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar.
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4. Nashville
Head to Music City and catch live music spilling out of honky-tonks along Lower Broadway, then take in a show at the legendary Ryman Auditorium. Wander through Centennial Park to see its full-scale Parthenon, or explore the indie shops and coffee spots of East Nashville. Come hungry—this is hot chicken country, best enjoyed at local institutions like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken—and stay out late, because here, there’s always one more song worth hearing.
3. Oahu
Visit this tropical paradise and take an eco-certified snorkel tour with sea turtles, known locally as honu, in crystal-clear waters. Head to the stunning Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a protected marine sanctuary full of colorful fish and turtles, and explore Oahu’s iconic spots like Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the surf lover's North Shore. Turtle Canyon off Waikiki Beach or Laniakea Beach on the North Shore, often called “Turtle Beach,” are more turtle-loving spots.
2. Las Vegas, NV
I love Vegas for three days, the perfect long weekend, especially when the weather warms up. Whether you're planning a getaway with your best friends or a romantic weekend, Vegas really has it all. Beyond the iconic casinos, you'll find big-name concerts, unforgettable culinary experiences, and luxe resorts like the Green Valley Ranch Spa and Resort off the strip. Lounge on a poolside day bed and then shuttle over to the Vegas strip for fun and sometimes wild nightlife. It's the perfect long weekend destination no matter who you're with!
1. New York City
Topping the U.S. Best of the Best list is none other than NYC. From free Central Park concerts and springtime High Line strolls to winter ice skating beneath the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, NYC never disappoints no matter what season it is. Catch a Broadway show, explore world-class museums, walk the Brooklyn Bridge, shop Fifth Avenue, dine from casual to Michelin-starred, and take in architectural icons like the Chrysler Building and the 9/11 Memorial. There's so much to do, you might have to plan a whole week here!
