Travelers looking ahead to 2026 have a world of inspiration at their fingertips. National Geographic’s “Best of the World 2026” list highlights 25 destinations that span glaciers, cities, coastlines and highways. While many picks are abroad, there are four U.S. destinations that stand out. Here’s why you’ll want to add them to your travel bucket list for 2026.
Related: These 10 Cities Are the Best to Road Trip Through
Route 66: Oklahoma
What to do:
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Cruise the historic Mother Road through Oklahoma’s 400‑mile stretch of U.S. Route 66, lined with restored classic motels, neon signs and roadside curiosities.
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Visit the retro‑iconic Blue Whale of Catoosa for that perfect photo moment and then explore local shops in the Meadow Gold District of Tulsa.
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Stay overnight in a mid‑century motel restored to Googie glory, such as Classen Inn in Oklahoma City or one of the retro stays along the route.
Why it made the list:
Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66 is celebrating its state’s longest stretch of the road as it nears the highway’s 100th anniversary in 2026. Preservation efforts, neon revival, and the nostalgic aesthetic of the golden age of the American road trip make it one of the standout U.S. destinations.
Hawaii is home to beautiful beaches, great for surfing.
North Dakota Badlands
What to do:
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Attend the long‑running Medora Musical outdoor show in summer, blending western heritage, storytelling and live performance under the Badlands sky.
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Take in the night sky or hike trails in the Little Missouri National Grassland for solitude, scenery and a sense of frontier scale.
Why it made the list:
The North Dakota Badlands made the cut because it offers something rare: wide open space, dramatic geology, fewer crowds, and a new cultural anchor in the Theodore Roosevelt library.
Related: New study reveals America’s most scenic drives for fall road trips
Maui, Hawaii
What to do:
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Ascend to the summit of Haleakalā at sunrise, explore lava‑flows, craters, panoramic views and a mood unlike anywhere else.
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Drive or ride the scenic Hana Highway to the island’s remote east end, stopping for waterfalls, rainforest curls and black‑sand shoreline at Waiʻānapanapa State Park.
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Relax on 120 miles of coastline: snorkel, surf, or unwind at iconic beaches like Kāʻanapali, Ho’okipa or Paʻiloa.
Why it made the list:
Maui stands out for its resilience. After the devastating 2023 wildfires, the island is rebuilding and invites travelers to contribute to its recovery to support sustainable tourism.
Pittsburgh is home to a lot of family-friendly attractions.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
What to do:
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Ride the historic Duquesne Incline 450 feet up Mount Washington for panoramic skyline and river views over downtown Pittsburgh.
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Visit the Andy Warhol Museum and explore the Pop District’s art, performance venues and public murals.
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Wander through Historic Market Square, the Cultural District and Arts Landing park with art installations and river‑front trails.
Why it made the list:
Pittsburgh transformed from an industrial steel‑town image into a vibrant city of culture, art and revitalized river‑fronts. Whether you’re drawn to neon‑lit nostalgia on a storied highway, the raw beauty of a quiet Badlands landscape, the tropical recovery and culture of Maui or the resurgence of a Midwestern American city, these four destinations offer rich variety. The selections reflect a broader theme: travel that doesn’t just consume, but connects with place, culture and environment.
If you’re planning a 2026 trip and want to lean into meaningful experiences, these U.S. spots should be high on your list.
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This story was originally reported by TravelHost on Oct 23, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
