Dec. 22, 2025, 9:53 a.m. MT
- U.S. News & World Report ranked the best places to visit in the USA for 2026.
- The rankings were determined by expert analysis and thousands of traveler votes.
- Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona was named the number one vacation destination.
If choosing a vacation were an Olympic sport, the United States would make it nearly impossible to pick a winner. With beaches, mountains, deserts and world-famous cities all competing for attention, narrowing down the best places to visit in the USA for 2026 takes more than just personal opinion.
For its 2026 rankings, U.S. News evaluated destinations across the country using a mix of expert analysis and thousands of traveler votes. Factors such as attractions, scenery, accommodations, dining options and overall traveler satisfaction all played a role.
The result is a carefully curated list that highlights destinations offering unforgettable experiences, whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, cultural landmarks or iconic scenery.
The top destinations for 2026 showcase the incredible variety the U.S. has to offer. From breathtaking national parks and scenic small towns to vibrant cities packed with history, food and entertainment, these places stand out for their ability to impress first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. Each destination earned its spot by delivering something memorable: views you can’t stop staring at, activities you’ll talk about for years or a sense of scale that makes you feel wonderfully small, as is the case with the Arizona landmark that claimed the top spot.
What is the number one vacation destination in the US?
Arizona has bragging rights for the rest of 2026, because the Grand Canyon placed number one as the best place to visit in the USA in 2026.
The national park took the crown due to its wide range of standout experiences such as hiking, iconic views and culture.
What are the top 10 vacation destinations?
Here are the top 10 vacation destinations for 2026:
- Grand Canyon National Park.
- Maui.
- Honolulu – Oahu.
- Glacier National Park.
- Zion National Park.
- Yosemite National Park.
- Yellowstone National Park.
- Grand Teton National Park.
- Lake Tahoe.
- Kaua’i.
Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.Acosta@gannett.com. Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.
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