Summer is on the horizon, and travelers are already mapping out their seasonal getaways according to TripAdvisor’s Annual Summer Travel Index. The 2025 travel landscape reveals a fascinating shift in preferences, with metropolitan cities and beach destinations dominating wishlists across America.
Las Vegas and New York City continue their reign as perennial favorites, while coastal gems like Myrtle Beach and Ocean City are seeing remarkable surges in popularity.
👥 The Power of the Young Traveler
What’s particularly noteworthy this year is how Generation Z and millennials are reshaping travel trends. These younger travelers are not just seeking relaxation—they’re hungry for diverse, experience-rich adventures that combine urban energy with seaside serenity.
Metropolitan areas are rebounding from their pre-pandemic slowdowns, and beach towns are offering more than just sun and surf, making 2025 a transformative year for domestic tourism.
🏆 Top 5 Domestic Destinations for Summer 2025
-
Las Vegas, NV
“America’s amusement park” offers dazzling entertainment, luxury resorts, and top-tier dining. -
New York City, NY
A timeless favorite where art, culture, shopping, and green spaces collide. -
Myrtle Beach, SC
A family-friendly escape with boardwalk fun, pristine beaches, and Southern charm. -
Ocean City, MD
A hidden coastal gem with amusement parks, crab shacks, and nostalgic boardwalk vibes. -
Chicago, IL
From jazz and architecture to deep-dish pizza, Chicago delivers rich urban flavor.
🌟 Trending Travel Spots to Watch
These rising destinations are capturing attention in 2025:
-
Fort Walton Beach, FL – Tranquil shores and emerald waters
-
Isle of Palms, SC – Coastal charm meets luxury relaxation
-
Big Sur, CA – Nature-lovers’ paradise with cliffside beauty
-
North Wildwood, NJ – Free beaches, fun piers, and retro flair
-
Dewey Beach, DE – Nightlife hotspot with a laid-back beach vibe
🎒 Experiences Over Souvenirs: A Generational Shift
According to TripAdvisor’s survey:
-
83% of travelers prioritize experiences over material items
-
Gen Z is the most active, with many planning six or more activities
-
Older generations average just 9% at that same activity level
This shows a cultural shift toward memory-making over merchandise.
📸 Travel, Social Media & Influence
Millennials and Gen Z are embracing personalized adventures and documenting their journeys online. This behavior is reshaping destination marketing, encouraging cities and beach towns to craft experiences that attract younger, digitally-connected travelers—who, in turn, inspire the next wave of vacationers.
🌍 Travel in 2025: Diverse, Personalized, and Experience-Driven
The summer of 2025 promises vibrant adventures for every kind of traveler—from the urban explorer to the beach-loving relaxation seeker. Whether you’re chasing neon lights in Vegas or sunset strolls in Big Sur, this season is all about crafting your perfect story.
