American Travel Trends: Where They're Going in 2025
Introduction As 2025 unfolds, Americans are traveling more frequently and with more intention. The average traveler is planning three vacations this year, with a growing focus on meaningful experiences, wellness, affordability, and local culture. From tropical escapes to road trip adventures, the U.S. travel landscape is evolving rapidly. Here's where Americans are heading in 2025 and why.
Key Travel Trends Among Americans in 2025
1. Budget-Conscious and Closer to Home
With economic concerns still top of mind, 52% of travelers are letting budget dictate destination choice. This has fueled a rise in domestic travel and staycations, with 37% preferring getaways closer to home.
2. Road Trips and "Microcations"
Short, spontaneous trips are on the rise. Nearly 34% of Americans plan a road trip this year, and 17% are opting for microcations (trips of four days or less). Road travel remains a top pick due to high airfare and flexibility.
3. Wellness, Nature & Regenerative Travel
Wellness travel, slow tourism, and agritourism are growing. Americans are booking rural retreats, yoga resorts, and regenerative farm stays like Blackberry Farm or Brush Creek Ranch, focusing on rest and reconnection.
4. Experience-Driven and Local Immersion
Over 56% of travelers are willing to spend more on authentic local experiences—food tours, cultural events, and community-based travel top the list. Sports tourism and music events are especially popular in 2025.
5. Gen Z & Millennials Lead the Way
Younger travelers are shaping the future. Gen Z and Millennials are taking 38% more trips than other groups, often booking immersive getaways via social media inspiration. "Townsizing"—exploring charming small towns—is especially trendy.
6. Workcations and Tech-Savvy Planning
Bleisure travel is booming. 23% of Americans plan to work remotely during vacations, while 15% use AI and apps to plan hotels, restaurants, and excursions—rising to 23% among younger travelers.
Top Travel Destinations for Americans in 2025
International Destinations:
- Grand Turk Island, Turks & Caicos (+528% in interest)
- Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica (+462%)
- Krabi, Thailand
- Luang Prabang, Laos
- Antwerp, Belgium
- Tromsø, Norway
- Rotterdam, Netherlands
Domestic Hotspots:
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- New York City, New York
- Honolulu, Hawaii
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Big Sur, California
- Charleston, South Carolina
- North Wildwood, New Jersey
Emerging U.S. Destinations:
- San Antonio, Texas
- Washington, D.C. (World Pride 2025)
- New Orleans, Louisiana (Mardi Gras, Super Bowl LIX)
- Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Traveler Profiles & What They're Booking
| Traveler Type | Popular Choices in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Road trips, microcations, domestic getaways |
| Adventure Seekers | Costa Rica, Thailand, nature-focused experiences |
| Wellness Travelers | Spa resorts, regenerative farm stays, retreats |
| Gen Z / Millennials | Small towns, experience-first travel, nightlife |
| Remote Workers | Cities with coworking, longer Airbnb-type stays |
Conclusion In 2025, American travelers are moving beyond traditional vacations. They're embracing shorter trips, deeper experiences, and a more conscious approach to travel. Whether it's discovering the jungles of Costa Rica, a road trip through California, or a relaxing farm stay, the trend is clear: Americans want travel that’s meaningful, memorable, and more mindful.
Looking for the best hotels or wellness retreats in these trending destinations? Find your stay on Booking.com and plan your perfect 2025 escape!
