Planning a vacation for 2027? National Geographic has released its annual list of destinations worth adding to your travel bucket list, and only five U.S. destinations made the cut.
The publication’s Best of the World 2027 list features 25 destinations around the globe, highlighting places around the world. The five U.S. selections range from a historic East Coast city to a scenic California road trip and outdoor adventures in the Ozarks.
Which U.S. Destinations Made National Geographic’s 2027 Travel List?
The five U.S. destinations recognized by National Geographic are Baltimore, Maryland; Madison, Wisconsin; California’s Pacific Coast Highway; the Southern Ozarks in Missouri and Arkansas; and Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory.
Each destination offers a different kind of getaway.
Baltimore, Maryland: The city earned recognition for its rich transportation history, cultural attractions and ongoing investment in its National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation. Visitors can also explore the historic Lexington Market, the National Aquarium and the Inner Harbor.
Madison, Wisconsin: This college town combines lakeside recreation with local food, independent shops and an extensive network of trails and bike paths. Its parks and waterfront areas make it appealing to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities.
Pacific Coast Highway, California: The iconic coastal route offers ocean views, scenic road trips and creative communities along the way. Travelers can explore destinations such as Mendocino County and Laguna Beach, which is celebrating its centennial in 2027.
Southern Ozarks, Missouri and Arkansas: Outdoor enthusiasts can find mountain biking trails, scenic bluffs, valleys and wildlife experiences throughout the region. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is one of the area’s attractions, with expansive landscapes and trails to explore.
Puerto Rico: Beyond its beaches, Puerto Rico stands out for its music, food and cultural heritage. The island reflects a blend of Afro-Puerto Rican, Indigenous Taíno and Spanish influences, offering visitors opportunities to experience its traditions and natural landscapes.
National Geographic Highlights Destinations Around the World
The 2027 list also features international destinations, including Jaipur in India, Normandy in France, Luxor in Egypt, Melbourne in Australia and Vestland in Norway.
The selections reflect a range of travel interests, from historic landmarks and culinary experiences to outdoor adventures and cultural festivals.
One More U.S. Destination Earned a Reader Favorite
Although it did not make the official 25-destination list, California’s Catalina Island earned National Geographic’s 2027 Readers’ Choice recognition.
Located about an hour by ferry from Long Beach, the island offers hiking, wildlife viewing, beaches, and scenic coastal landscapes.
For travelers already thinking about their next vacation, National Geographic’s latest selections offer plenty of inspiration for planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure in 2027.
