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- I’ve been to all 50 states. Here are 9 places that should definitely be on your 2026 travel bucket list. (businessinsider.com)
Your 2026 Travel Wishlist: A Journey Through America’s Hidden Gems and Iconic Landscapes
As the new year approaches, many of us are already dreaming of new adventures. For those looking to make travel a priority in 2026, a seasoned traveler who has explored all 50 states offers a curated list of nine exceptional destinations that promise unforgettable experiences.
Idaho’s Teton Valley: Nestled on the western side of the Teton Mountain Range, Teton Valley, Idaho, offers a serene escape. Towns like Driggs, Victor, and Tetonia provide charming local flavor, with opportunities for river floating and exploring vibrant downtowns. It also serves as a peaceful base for day trips to the bustling Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, allowing visitors to enjoy the Tetons without the typical crowds.
Northern New Mexico: A perennial favorite, Northern New Mexico captivates with its vast, open skies and unique landscapes. Travelers are encouraged to stay in Taos, Santa Fe, or Abiquiú, and to explore the rejuvenating Ojo Caliente Hot Springs or hike the historic Ghost Ranch, once home to artist Georgia O’Keeffe.
Mendocino County, California: This coastal gem combines rugged natural beauty with small-town charm. Visitors can hike through Russian Gulch and Mendocino Headlands State Parks, then unwind with glamping at Mendocino Grove. The town of Mendocino itself enchants with its colorful storefronts, cozy cafés, and art galleries, all set against a stunning ocean backdrop.
Charleston, South Carolina: Consistently drawing visitors back, Charleston exudes Southern charm. Wandering through the historic French Quarter and South of Broad areas, strolling along the Battery, savoring Lowcountry cuisine, and browsing local boutiques and galleries are all essential experiences in this picturesque city.
Glacier National Park, Montana: A truly magical destination, Glacier National Park in Montana is renowned for its massive mountains and awe-inspiring vistas. Highlights include hiking the Highline and Avalanche Lake trails, driving the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, and soaking in the serene views at Lake McDonald.
Cumberland Island, Georgia: This unique barrier island offers 17.5 miles of undeveloped beaches and a chance to encounter wild horses. Visitors can explore the ruins of the 19th-century Dungeness Mansion, tour the Plum Orchard mansion, and visit the historic First African Baptist Church, a site of significant cultural interest.
Western North Carolina: A beloved region, Western North Carolina boasts charming towns like Hendersonville, Boone, and Brevard. Brevard, in particular, stands out with its summer classical performances at the Brevard Music Center and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including waterfalls and hiking trails.
Anchorage, Alaska: As a vast and sometimes challenging state to navigate, Alaska benefits from Anchorage as an ideal home base. The city offers comfortable stays at establishments like the Wildbirch Hotel, delicious local eateries like Biscuit Club and Moose’s Tooth, and easy access to scenic drives such as the one along Turnagain Arm. From Anchorage, adventurers can embark on glacier tours, explore charming villages like Hope, and visit national parks such as Katmai and Lake Clark.
Coastal Maine: Consistently ranked among the most beautiful places in the U.S., coastal Maine offers a rugged and timeless charm. Starting in Kennebunkport, travelers can visit the iconic Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth before heading north to hike in Acadia National Park. For those with more time, a drive up to Lubec, the easternmost point in the continental U.S., provides a deeper appreciation for this unforgettable coastline.