As the summer of 2023 starts coming to a close, it seems more Americans than ever have got their traveling mojo back.
Tourism records are being broken, international flights are in high demand, and underrated destinations are being discovered by more and more travelers.
However, the cost of international travel remains high, so it’s no wonder many Americans are turning to the sights and sounds of their own nation to get their late summer traveling fix.
Domestic trips are popular due to the lower costs, the different travel options available other than just flights, and the easier ability to make last-minute bookings.
But where are travelers heading to in the U.S. right now, and where will the popular locations be for fall? These are the top eight destinations according to a new report:
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- New York, New York
- Miami, Florida
- San Diego, California
- Chicago, Illinois
- Nashville, Tennessee
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Orlando, Florida
Las Vegas
Widely regarded as one of the most popular destinations in the United States for international visitors, ‘sin city’ is also number one with domestic travelers this summer.
And it’s easy to see why – from the bright lights of the strip to some of the finest dining and entertainment in the country, Las Vegas is a playground like nowhere else.
Away from the obvious attractions of the casinos, Las Vegas is a great basecamp for visiting the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and Death Valley.
Fall is also a great time to visit, with cooler temperatures, lower hotel prices, and smaller crowds.
New York
Does it get more iconic than New York? There’s something in ‘the big apple’ for everyone.
World-famous landmarks like Times Square and Central Park draw in the crowds, but there is so much to explore in New York that you can also always find something off the beaten path too.
Sure, it’s busy, and it can also be expensive, but travelers keep on coming back for more.
Miami
The home of stunning beaches, popping nightlife, and an amazing food scene heavily influenced by Latin America, Miami is always a popular destination for American travelers.
It’s also one of the best places in the U.S. for arts, with museums, festivals, and even whole districts dedicated to it.
San Diego
Travelers seem to love the bohemian beach vibe of San Diego, which showcases some of the best of coastal California.
Check out nautical-themed attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Birch Aquarium, and California Surf Museum, or simply enjoy a golden sunset stroll through Balboa Park.
Chicago
Chicago really is having a moment. The city is well-known for its art and culture scene with a wealth of top-quality museums and theatres, but it has much more to offer besides that.
In good weather, there are countless beautiful green spaces such as Lincoln Park and Millennium Park to while away an afternoon, while attractions on the lakefront such as Monroe Harbor and Navy Pier are hard to beat under sunny skies.
Nashville
It’s hard to think of Nashville and not think of music.
From famous studios that hosted the likes of Elvis and Dolly Parton to the Country Music Museum and Hall of Fame, Nashville is a town for audiophiles.
Away from the music and the Cheekwood Botanical Garden is a pleasant place to visit in the cooler fall climate, as is the Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge.
New Orleans
The tantalizing odor of seafood gumbo, smooth jazz caressing the airwaves, and a party atmosphere that rarely disappoints – this must be New Orleans.
Away from the food, drink, and music, New Orleans has plenty of historic interest to keep you busy with sights such as Saint Louis Cathedral, Louis Armstrong Park, and the famous French Quarter.
Orlando
There’s more to Orlando than just theme parks (though they certainly help draw in the crowds).
Orlando is a well-connected city that makes it the perfect launchpad for visiting some of Florida’s amazing coastline and in-land nature.
It also boasts great weather throughout most of the year; just keep an eye on the forecast during hurricane season, which runs through most of the fall.
