National Geographic just revealed their favorite destinations across the globe to visit in 2025.
And to that I say, “it’s already 2025?!”.
Nat Geo’s reveal party didn’t involve blue, pink, or any proud new parent mishaps making rounds on TikTok, but what it did show were some hidden gems, up-and-coming cities, and icons making a comeback.
Frankly, that pretty much sums up the 3 U.S. destinations Nat Geo sees as absolute musts, showcasing a mix of destinations to tease your wanderlust.
Showing love for the South, West Coast, and one of America’s trendiest getaways, let’s dive into which cities should highlight next year’s travel plans.
Florida’s Last Hidden Gem? Discover The Wonders Of Ocala
There’s a lot more to Florida than way-too-happy rodents and Mother Nature’s wrath.
Now that hurricane season has calmed, there’s no better time to make plans for the Sunshine State.
That being said, many of the popular state’s hidden gems have already been uncovered for that very reason – it’s so popular!
Beyond the ‘happiest place on Earth’ and stunning coastline lies majestic scenery of otherworldly blue waters, sky-high trees, and a plethora of wildlife to enjoy about an hour from Orlando.
In particular, National Geographic highlighted Ocala National Forest (see entry fees here) as the place to be in 2025. Being home to 600 lakes and nearly 400,000 acres, it’s time to give Florida’s wild side its due.
With revamped trails and additional piers, there’s more opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.
One of the most sightly places in the region is Silver Springs State Park (just be mindful no swimming is allowed).
Kayak yourself or book a super cheap glass-bottom boat tour starting out at just $15, or pay a little more for a longer tour with better odds of witnessing manatees, which are commonplace around here.
Return Of An Icon: Has Los Angeles Reinvented Itself?
Oh boy, I hate to bring up the dreaded “C” word but Los Angeles really did a number during Covid.
It’s well documented at this point, but once the lockdowns hit, this iconic city became its own worst enemy.
If there were ever a city with a 50-50 split of mixed reviews, it’s gotta be LA. Some love it, some despise it, and some love to hate it and hate to love it.
Nat Geo points out a rise in the city’s cultural scene, but it has always been one of the most diverse cities in America.
For 2025, it may finally be ready to be an American treasure again, rather than its frequent reputation of zombie-like streets, rampant crime, and dying staples that just couldn’t quite get over the post-pandemic hump.
Now, it appears there’s a resurgence – new museums, public art, and trendy restaurants beginning to take shape years after the infamous “California Exodus”.
Don’t miss out on the 1.3-mile stretch of Crenshaw Boulevard, embracing Black culture through art and welcoming to anyone and everyone to enjoy.
This Spud Is No Dud: Boise May Be America’s Trendiest City
With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, impeccable food, and surprisingly diverse community, Boise is hard not to fall in love with.
I’m certainly guilty of it after a visit a handful of years ago, and it’s only grown in popularity since.
Arguably America’s trendiest city, Idaho’s state capital is a delight to visit, especially since more events are being added to the calendar and popular ones are returning, like Jaialdi, which showcases the region’s proud Basque heritage—the highest concentration in the U.S., in fact.
With culture comes food, and Boise is a foodie destination through and through. How could it not be when Idaho’s license plates straight up read, “famous potatoes”.
We all know potatoes are the world’s greatest vegetable-producing salty snacks, buttery side dishes, and, of course, vodka.
Better yet, to celebrate the almighty vegetable there’s no better way to ring in 2025 than Boise’s one-of-a-kind Potato Drop, the ultimate Times Square alternative for New Year’s.
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