Best Bets 2026
Where to go in 2026
As America crosses into its 250th year of independence, our editors have put together a list of top travel picks for the year ahead—celebrating the spirit of exploration both close to home, and far from it. Our Best Bets destinations were nominated for a variety of reasons: big anniversaries, landmark events, outstanding cultural or historical significance, sustainable travel practices or new infrastructure that brings the previously unreachable within reach.
This year, we invite you to stroll cobblestoned streets in the South, check out the first all-digital Presidential Library in the Midwest, road-trip a 100-year-old highway in the Southwest and salute the foundations of freedom in the Northeast. Farther afield, 2026 could find you foraging in the Arctic Circle, marveling at the ancient and modern in the Middle Eastern desert or joining jubilant festivals in equatorial Africa. From priceless paintings at the gates of the Winter Olympics to biodynamic wine tastings at the foot of the Andes, 2026 promises to be a most memorable year for those who tick off even a fraction of the list.
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Pennsylvania U.S.A.
America's semiquincentennial in 2026 will bring a year-long celebration to Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Travel in for these fetes, and to visit the Old City's treasure trove of American history sites. The 2026 calendar also includes major sports events, like the World Cup and NFL Draft. Take a Keystone State road trip to experience American icons, hallowed battlefields, creative cuisine and quaint towns.
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Ghana
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Finland Northern Europe
Consistently ranked the happiest country on earth, Finland is also home to the 2026 European Capital of Culture: Oulu, on the northwestern coast. Take part in a year of celebration with your own Nordic adventure. Explore the creative and modern city of Helsinki, plus Europe's largest lake district. Experience winter's Northern Lights, or summer's endless sun. Dive into sauna culture and exercise what Finland believes is "Everyman's Right" by hiking, foraging and camping in the unspoiled wilds.
Arizona U.S.A.
In 1926, the United States opened Route 66. One of the first national highways, "the Mother Road" was a main artery of east-west migration during the Great Depression. It became a favored route for vacationers out to get their "kicks" before it was decommissioned in 1985—but loyal fans rallied to preserve it. During its centennial, celebrate the historic highway's vital place in America's story with a road trip across Arizona's stretch—widely held to be one of the best-preserved portions.
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Chile South America
There are few places on earth where it's possible to ski in the morning and surf at sunset. Chile, running like ribbon on South America's southwestern coast, is one. Launch a 2026 journey fueled by Patagonian adventure, desert stargazing and organic wines that are as sustainable as they are delicious. With increased nonstop flight service from Miami to Santiago coming online now, 2026 is an opportune time to go.
Chicago Illinois, U.S.A.
Spanning 19 acres, the highly anticipated Obama Presidential Center will make its debut in 2026. Beyond the new museum, garden and first-of-its-kind all-digital presidential library, Chicago boasts 77 diverse neighborhoods to explore. Chi-Town's vibrant arts scene, satisfying food culture, high-octane sporting events and jam-packed festival calendar make it a hit any time of year. Plan extra time for your 2026 getaway to take it all in.
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Savannah Georgia, U.S.A.
A timeless city that just keeps getting better with age, Savannah brings a modern twist to its historic streets. If you’ve visited in the past and think this city is one and done—think again. There’s even more to love in 2026, with openings and expansions of kid-friendly museums, plus new luxury hotels and buzzworthy restaurants. Meanwhile, its historic architecture and Spanish moss-draped oaks ensure the city will always be charming.
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Singapore Southeast Asia
Singapore has come a long way in its 60 years since gaining independence. What was once a small trading port is now one of the world's cleanest, safest and most innovative cities. Visit in 2026 to witness the city-state's seamless intermingling of parks and green spaces amid an eye-catching, modern skyline. The UNESCO-recognized hawker centers and Michelin-starred restaurants make eating a joy, while the island's many English-speakers make it especially easy to navigate for first-time Asia travelers.
Ghana West Africa
Nonstop flight service from Atlanta to Accra just joined existing service from New York. This new route brings the West African country into easier reach for those interested in heritage tourism—and for anyone wishing to experience Ghana's deeply rooted and unique culture. December through March is festival season, attracting visitors from around the world. Purchase iconic Kente cloth directly from skilled weavers, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and savor traditional cuisine.
Northern Italy Europe
The 2026 Winter Olympics will cast new light on Northern Italy, a region where heritage, flavor and natural beauty converge. Art, fashion and historic architecture mix with typical Italian elegance in cities like Milan and Turin. Parma and Bologna are gourmand-favorite food hubs. The soaring cliffs of the Dolomites and the glimmering lakes of Garda and Como provide even more reason to see Italy's less-traveled northern region this year.
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Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia Middle East
Ancient tradition meets modern ambition in Saudi Arabia. The country has set a goal to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030. It's paving the way by creating mind-blowing, yet carbon-neutral luxury resort areas and loosening restrictions on dress and gender norms. New nonstop flight service from Atlanta to Riyadh will make 2026 a great year to experience Saudi's eight UNESCO World Heritage sites—plus its staggering, cutting-edge attractions.
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Greenland
The Bahamas
Maui
Slovenia
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Grand Costa Maya
Malta
Sonoma County
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Arizona
Pennsylvania
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Saudi Arabia
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