America at 250: Where Americans are Traveling in 2026

As we celebrate 250 years, Americans are reflecting on our history and planning their own personal next adventures. This year's travel trends paint a fascinating picture of a country whose travelers may share a passport, but not necessarily the same travel bucket list.

This Independence Day is an extra special one: it marks 250 years of the United States of America. As we celebrate a quarter millennium of independence, Americans across all 50 states are reflecting on our history, while many are also planning their own personal next adventures.
This year's travel trends paint a fascinating picture of a country whose travelers may share a passport, but not necessarily the same travel bucket list. From Mediterranean escapes to scenic hiking vacations, this year's bookings reveal that our travel tastes are as diverse as our nation.

West Coast: Mediterranean Dreams

Our most-booked trip so far this year by those traveling from the West Coast is the Greek Island Wanderer. Perhaps it's the Mediterranean lifestyle that resonates with West Coasters– with its relaxed pace, stunning coastlines, and emphasis on outdoor living, Greece maybe offers a familiar vibe, just with an added backdrop of history.

The 14-day Island Wanderer discovery tour, hops from Santorini to Paros and beyond, immersing you in Greek life as they explore ancient ruins, bustling harbors, and serene beaches. Beyond the postcard-perfect white villages, this tour ventures to quieter islands, offering a more local perspective of one of Europe's most iconic destinations.

The South: La Dolce Vita

It's fitting that the top tour for travelers from the South is the Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo trip, as Southern Italy and Southern America are both known for their warm hospitality, strong sense of community, and love of delicious home-cooked meals.

Exploring Amalfi on foot through bucket list hikes along the stunning Italian coast, this walking tour winds through cliffside villages, lemon groves and vineyards. That warm Southern Italian hospitality is on full display during evenings spent at our rustic agriturismo accomodation, a small family-run working farm where you get a taste of family life, wines, and local food.

East Coast: Atlantic Adventures

Madeira's Atlantic waters may feel familiar to visitors from the East Coast, leading to the Walking in Madeira trip becoming the most booked tour by East Coast Americans this year. Surrounded by the same ocean as home, this Portuguese island combines dramatic coastlines with centuries of maritime history, creating a destination that might feel both familiar and refreshingly different to East Coast guests.

The week-long hiking tour in Madeira follows the islands famous levadas through laurel forests, along towering sea cliffs, and into picturesque villages, revealing why Madeira has become one of Europe's premier hiking destinations.

Midwest: Ancient Wonders

Travelers from the Midwest are choosing to venture off the beaten path, with the Highlights and Hidden Gems of Western Turkey tour as their number one pick. This 13-day immersive itinerary delves into the rich history of the region, from the ancient Greeks to the Romans and through the Byzantine era.

From soaking up the sun on the Turquoise Coast to walking the marble streets of Ephesus, one of the great cities of the ancient world, this trip combines exploring iconic ancient wonders with experiencing vibrant local culture. It's perfect for anyone looking to go beyond Europe’s more familiar destinations, offering a richer sense of place, fewer crowds and a more immersive connection to one of the world’s most historically significant regions.

Don't Just Travel, Explore!

Ready to celebrate with a trip of your own? Take advantage of our Life, Liberty and Adventure promo, and take off $250 per person on your bookings, so now is the perfect time to start planning your next adventure! Check out our trending trips today.