If you’re hoping to travel this year, consider the winners of Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice Awards for Best of the Best Destinations in the U.S.
This isn’t just a list of editorial favorites; the ranking is derived from real-world data. Specifically, the platform analyzed the quality and quantity of reviews and ratings from travelers between October 2024 and September 2025.
The ranking is a mix of familiar favorites and up-and-comers that suggests travelers are now seeking destinations that offer a guarantee of quality.
1. New York City, New York
It comes as little surprise that the Big Apple retains the crown as the top U.S. destination. New York City offers an energy that is impossible to replicate, anchored by landmarks like the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
Beyond the tourist staples, the city continues to dominate due to its unrivaled culinary scene and the enduring appeal of Broadway. Whether you are spending a weekend exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art or just grabbing a slice in Brooklyn, NYC remains the gold standard for domestic travel.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has climbed the ranks to take the silver medal this year, proving it is much more than just a gambling hub. While the casinos on the Strip are still a major draw, the city has successfully pivoted to become a premier destination for world-class entertainment, residency shows, and high-end dining.
The sheer volume of family-friendly attractions and outdoor excursions — such as trips to the nearby Red Rock Canyon — has broadened its appeal significantly. It is a place where you can watch a Cirque du Soleil show one night and hike through desert landscapes the next.
3. Oahu, Hawaii
The island of Oahu offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and tropical paradise. Honolulu serves as a bustling gateway with access to the famous Waikiki Beach, but the island’s appeal extends far beyond the high-rises.
History buffs are drawn to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, while outdoor enthusiasts flock to the North Shore to watch legendary surfing. Oahu remains the most accessible Hawaiian island for many travelers, delivering everything from luxury shopping to snorkeling in Hanauma Bay.
4. Nashville, Tennessee
Music City continues to resonate with travelers, holding its ground as a top cultural heavyweight. Nashville has evolved into a bachelorette party capital, but its roots in country music history remain its strongest asset. A visit here isn’t complete without a stop at the Grand Ole Opry or a stroll down Broadway to hear live music spilling out of the honky-tonks.
The city has also cultivated a serious food scene, moving well beyond its famous hot chicken to offer sophisticated Southern dining experiences.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans offers a sensory experience that no other American city can match. Known for the French Quarter and Mardi Gras, the Crescent City is deeply rooted in history, jazz, and Creole cuisine. Travelers consistently rate it highly for its distinct architecture and the walkability of its most famous neighborhoods.
New Orleans is a destination where the food — beignets, gumbo, and crawfish — is as important as the sightseeing, making it a perennial favorite for those who travel with their stomachs.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Despite the harsh winters, Chicago shines as a world-class destination, particularly in the warmer months when the city truly comes alive. The architecture is a major draw, with boat tours along the Chicago River offering some of the best views of the skyline. Visitors love the cultural depth of the Art Institute of Chicago and the public grandeur of Millennium Park.
Whether you are there for the deep-dish pizza or the blues clubs, the Windy City offers a metropolitan experience that rivals New York at a more manageable pace.
7. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston captivates visitors with its preservation of history and Southern charm. The cobblestone streets and antebellum houses provide a picturesque backdrop that feels frozen in time. It is consistently ranked highly for its hospitality and its booming Lowcountry food scene.
For travelers seeking a slower pace than the major metropolises on this list, Charleston offers a refined mix of history, beaches, and luxury accommodations.
8. Key West, Florida
Key West represents the ultimate domestic escape. Located at the southernmost point of the continental U.S., this island city is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, coral reefs, and pastel-hued houses. It draws a diverse crowd ranging from history lovers visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to snorkelers looking to explore the clear waters. The nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square remains a defining tradition.
9. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital is a powerhouse for educational and historical tourism. Washington, D.C., stands out because so many of its world-class attractions — including the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo — are free to the public.
Beyond the National Mall and the monuments, the city has developed vibrant neighborhoods like Georgetown and the Wharf that offer excellent dining and nightlife. It is a city that rewards walking, with history embedded in nearly every block.
10. Boston, Massachusetts
Rounding out the top 10 is Boston, one of America’s oldest and most walkable cities. It seamlessly blends colonial history with modern innovation, best experienced by walking the Freedom Trail.
Sports fans treat Fenway Park like a cathedral, while foodies head to the North End for authentic Italian cuisine. The city’s distinct neighborhoods, from Beacon Hill to the Seaport District, offer a variety of experiences that keep travelers coming back year after year.
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